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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
Informal
What 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.
Examples
Off the top of my head, there were about forty people at the meeting.
