off-the-cuff

[ awf-thuh-kuhf, of- ]

adjective

1. with little or no preparation; extemporaneous; impromptu:

   a speaker with a good off-the-cuff delivery.

Word History and Origins

Origin of off-the-cuff¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Idioms and Phrases

Impromptu, extemporaneous, as in His speech was entirely off the cuff . This term supposedly alludes to the practice of speakers making last-minute notes on the cuff of a shirtsleeve. [1930s]

Example Sentences

But there is a sense they rely on such off-the-cuff improvisation, rather than the methodical working over and opening up of opponents.

From BBC

It was an off-the-cuff joke and she embraces being outspoken.

From BBC

Critics of Bianco say the sheriff’s comments are indicative of his off-the-cuff nature, which sometimes gets him into trouble.

From Los Angeles Times

An off-the-cuff comment Will made during an interview, that Cinnamon was probably "living her best life", made it into headlines across the world.

From BBC

Some of these events happen everyday, but each afternoon — Ghost Town Alive! runs on select days through Sept. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. — is also full of off-the-cuff narratives.

From Los Angeles Times