Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

off-the-top-of-ones-head

idiom
/ˌɔːf ðə tɒp əv wʌnz hɛd/
Definition
An expression used to indicate that a person is giving an answer or idea without having thought about it thoroughly or based on limited knowledge.
Examples
  • When asked about his plans for the weekend, he gave an off-the-top-of-his-head answer, suggesting a trip to the mountains.
  • She often gives off-the-top-of-her-head responses in meetings, which can be both surprising and amusing.
  • His off-the-top-of-the-head suggestion turned out to be a brilliant idea after some discussion.
Meaning
It refers to something that is given spontaneously or without deep consideration, often emphasizing immediacy or lack of preparation.
Synonyms
  • spontaneously
  • on the spur of the moment
  • improvised