What is off the cuff?

"Off the cuff" is a phrase that refers to speaking or performing something spontaneously, without having prepared or written any material in advance. It often implies a sense of improvisation or extemporaneous speaking. The origin of the phrase is thought to come from the practice of jotting down notes on the cuff of a shirt sleeve as a quick reference, though this practice itself is more anecdotal than documented.

In a broader context, "off the cuff" can be used to describe any action or decision that is made on the spur of the moment without prior planning. It is often associated with a certain degree of casualness or informality, and in some contexts, it can imply a measure of skill or confidence, as the person is able to think and react quickly without needing preparation. However, it might also suggest a lack of thoroughness, depending on the situation and execution.