As a language expert with a deep understanding of idiomatic expressions, I can explain the phrase "to talk off the cuff."

To talk off the cuff means to speak without any preparation or notes, often spontaneously or impromptu. This expression is commonly used to describe a situation where someone is expected to speak or respond without having had the opportunity to plan or rehearse their words.

The phrase likely originated from the practice of keeping notes or a written speech in one's cuff (the part of a shirt sleeve covering the forearm) to refer to during a speech or presentation. If someone was speaking without referring to these notes, they were said to be "talking off the cuff."

Here's the explanation with the key term highlighted in red:

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Fig. to speak without preparing a speech; to speak extemporaneously; to render a spoken opinion or estimate. (As if one's notes had been written hastily on one's cuff.) she is capable of making sense and being convincing even when she speaks off��the-cuff.read more >>