Definitions

off-the-cuff

[awf-thuh-kuhf, of-] / ˈɔf ðəˈkʌf, ˈɒf- /

ADJECTIVE

extemporaneous

Synonyms

WEAK

ad hoc ad-lib automatic autoschediastic by ear casual expedient extemporary extempore fake free immediate impromptu improv improvisatory improvised improviso informal jamming made-up makeshift offhand on impulse on-the-spot snap spontaneous spur-of-the-moment toss off toss out unplanned unpremeditated unprepared unrehearsed unstudied winging it

off the cuff

ADJECTIVE

impromptu

Synonyms

WEAK

ad-lib extemporaneous improv improvised improviso offhand played by ear shot from the hip spontaneous spur-of-the-moment unpremeditated unprepared unrehearsed unscripted whipped up winged

ADJECTIVE

without preparation

Synonyms

WEAK

ad-lib by ear extemporaneously impromptu improv improvised makeshift off the hip off the top of one's head offhand spur of the moment unrehearsed

ADVERB

without preparation

Synonyms

WEAK

ad-lib by ear extemporaneously impromptu improv improvised makeshift off the hip off the top of one's head offhand unrehearsed

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This year, candidates are increasingly pivoting to social media to post snappy, off-the-cuff videos that could fuel momentum for their campaigns if they go viral.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

Carson’s amazing comedic monologues and silly antics gave viewers humor without being annoying, his off-the-cuff quips were hilarious, and interviews with interesting guests sparked laughter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

With most of the decisions already made, the Two Sessions are mainly a talking shop with little room for spontaneity or off-the-cuff comments.

From Barron's • Mar. 2, 2026

Few people deliver more creative off-the-cuff insults than lawyers.

From Salon • Nov. 6, 2025

We’ve all witnessed with embarrassment the off-the-cuff speaker crashing and burning at a wedding, or the panicky TV presenter “drying” on air.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith

off-the-cuff

Example Sentences

Related Words