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Offhanded: meaning, definitions and examples

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offhanded

 

[ ˌɔːfˈhændɪd ]

Adjective / Adverb
Context #1 | Adjective

casual remarks

Offhanded refers to something done or said without prior thought or consideration. It often implies a lack of seriousness or attention to detail in the way something is expressed.

Synonyms

blithe, casual, disregardful, indifferent, unconcerned

Examples of usage

  • His offhanded comment hurt her feelings.
  • She made an offhanded remark about the situation.
  • In an offhanded way, he dismissed the idea.
Context #2 | Adverb

casually

When used as an adverb, offhanded describes doing something in a casual or nonchalant manner, often lacking preparation or forethought.

Synonyms

casually, impulsively, nonchalantly

Examples of usage

  • He offhandedly mentioned the plan during lunch.
  • She offhandedly agreed without considering the consequences.
  • He offhandedly suggested they go to dinner.

Translations

Translations of the word "offhanded" in other languages:

🇵🇹 despreocupado

🇮🇳 अचानक

🇩🇪 nebenbei

🇮🇩 secara tiba-tiba

🇺🇦 непередбачений

🇵🇱 niedbały

🇯🇵 即興の

🇫🇷 improvisé

🇪🇸 improvisado

🇹🇷 düşüncesiz

🇰🇷 즉흥적인

🇸🇦 عفوي

🇨🇿 neformální

🇸🇰 neformálny

🇨🇳 即兴的

🇸🇮 nepremišljen

🇮🇸 óformlegur

🇰🇿 импровизациялық

🇬🇪 იმპროვიზირებული

🇦🇿 improvizə edilmiş

🇲🇽 improvisado

Etymology

The word 'offhanded' traces its origins to the early 19th century, derived from the combination of 'off hand' and the suffix '-ed'. The term 'off hand' itself implies a lack of thought or prior notice to something being referenced. The earliest recorded use reflects a sense of nonchalance or disregard when delivering a statement. Over time, 'offhanded' evolved to encompass not only spoken remarks but also actions performed without careful consideration. It emphasizes an informal, sometimes dismissive attitude towards the subject at hand. The word encapsulates a spirit of spontaneity, which can be both positive and negative, depending on the context in which it is used.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,563, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.