offhand

adjective  C2
Plain meaning

rude or careless because of not showing enough attention

Exam-register meaning

In academic or exam writing, this is used to discuss rude or careless because of not showing enough attention in a more precise way.

In context
naturalThe report described offhand comment in a clear and practical way.
examThe findings show that offhand comment can influence educational, social, or economic outcomes.
Common collocations
offhand commentoffhand mannersound offhand
Watch out
Do not overuse it as a direct replacement for “good/bad”. Use it with natural nouns such as “offhand comment”.
Quick check — can you use it?

The findings show that  ______  comment can influence educational, social, or economic outcomes.

Practice all 660 words free →

More C2 words to master
reskill abstruse taciturn gas-guzzler foetus