off the top of one's head

English

Prepositional phrase

off the top of one's head

  1. Used other than with a figurative or idiomatic meaning: see off, top, head.
  2. (idiomatic) In an extemporaneous manner; without careful thought, preparation, or investigation.
    I cannot think of any good examples off the top of my head, but give me a couple of hours and I'm sure I could come up with something.

Usage notes

  • Usually used to characterize the manner of one's thinking or speaking.
  • Often indicates a random piece of information put forth by a knowledgeable expert in the topic spoken within.

Synonyms

Translations

See also

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