Offhand
/ˌɔːfˈhænd/
adjectiveadverbB2
Definition
Offhand describes words or actions done quickly, without planning or careful thinking. It can mean something said or done casually, sometimes seeming a little careless or not polite. People use it when they speak or act without much attention or formality.
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See It in Action
Done or said without preparation or thought, often casual or informal
- •He gave an offhand comment about the meeting without thinking about the consequences.
- •Her offhand reply made it seem like she didn’t care about the question.
- •I made an offhand joke, but it accidentally hurt someone’s feelings.
(Adverb) Without looking for information or planning; immediately and without thought
- •I can’t tell you the exact number offhand, but I’ll check later.
- •Offhand, I don’t remember where I put my keys.
- •She answered offhand, not knowing the full details.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "offhand" like "quick," but with less care or thought behind it—like a fast answer without thinking
- ✓Picture someone answering a question while looking away, not fully focused or serious
- ✓It's the feeling when a friend makes a joke without thinking if it might hurt someone
- ✓Sounds like "off-hand" → imagine holding something loosely in your hand, not carefully or tightly
- ✓Think of a time when someone gave a quick, casual answer that felt a bit rude or too simple
- ✓NOT like "careful" (thoughtful and polite)—offhand is more casual and sometimes careless
- ✓NOT like "formal" (planned and polite)—offhand is informal and quick
- ✓NOT like "rude" always, but it can sometimes feel a little disrespectful because it shows little attention
Try Other Words
- •Casual: relaxed and informal (Use when the tone is relaxed but not careless)
- •Unprepared: not ready or planned (Use when emphasizing lack of preparation)
- •Impromptu: done without planning (Use when something is done immediately without time to prepare)
- •Curt: short and possibly rude (Use when offhand is more rude or blunt)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "off" + "hand" (meaning from the side or not directly from the main focus)
- •Etymology: From Old English and Middle English, combining "off" (away) and "hand" (the body part), originally meaning something done from the side or without direct attention
- •Historical development: Used since the 1500s to describe actions done without preparation or casually, sometimes with a hint of rudeness
- •Modern usage: Commonly used to describe quick, informal remarks or actions done without much thought or care
Reflect & Connect
•When can being offhand be helpful, and when can it cause problems in communication?
•How do you feel when someone gives you an offhand answer? Does it change your opinion of them?
Fill in the blanks
1.He made an offhand comment ___ thinking about how it might affect others.
2.I don’t know the answer ___, but I can find out for you later.
3.Her offhand tone made the conversation feel ___ and less serious.
4.Unlike a carefully prepared speech, an offhand remark is usually ___ and quick.
5.When someone is offhand, they often speak without ___ or full attention.
6.You should avoid being offhand when discussing ___ topics that need respect.
7.Offhand answers often lack detail because the speaker did not ___ before responding.