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Iffy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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iffy

[ˈɪfi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

uncertain situation

Iffy is an adjective used to describe something that is uncertain, questionable, or unreliable. It often implies that there is a lack of confidence in the outcome of a situation or decision.

Synonyms

doubtful, questionable, uncertain.

Examples of usage

  • The weather looks iffy for tomorrow's picnic.
  • Her explanation was a bit iffy, leaving us all confused.
  • The financial forecast is looking iffy this quarter.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'iffy'

The term 'iffy' originated in the early 20th century and is believed to be a variant of the term 'if', reflecting uncertainty. It may have been popularized through American slang, illustrating a casual way to express doubt or a lack of confidence in something. Over time, 'iffy' has become accustomed to casual conversation and writing, particularly in contexts where the speaker wishes to convey skepticism or ambivalence. Its usage has broadened to encompass various situations, from personal decisions to weather forecasts, making it a versatile term in colloquial English. The transformation from a simple conjunction to an adjective illustrates the dynamic nature of language, where terms evolve and adapt based on societal needs and cultural shifts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,754, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.