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off the top of one's head
01
from one's memory, without spending time to carefully consider or think
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "off the top of one's head" and when to use it?
The idiom "off the top of one's head" originates from the idea that information or ideas are presented without deep thought or prior planning. It is used to describe providing a quick response or answer based on one's immediate knowledge or intuition, rather than relying on research or careful consideration. This phrase emphasizes spontaneity and a lack of formal preparation.
Example
When asked about the capital of a particular country, she gave an answer off the top of her head, without looking it up.
Just off the top of my head, I’d say there were about 50.
John can list the capital cities of all 50 states off the top of his head.
During the meeting, he provided an estimate off the top of his head for the project's completion time.
It was the best I could think of off the top of my head.
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