state offhandedly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "state offhandedly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to describe someone mentioning something casually or without much thought. Example: "During the meeting, she stated offhandedly that she might be leaving the company soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is another when Buckley tells stories and then states offhandedly that she cannot remember salient details.

The New York Times - Books

He once offhandedly invoked bestiality in arguing that states should have the right to regulate homosexual acts.

The New York Times

In a prior article, I referenced offhandedly the generous nature of the benefits for teachers and other state and local government employees.

Forbes

It's done so offhandedly.

The New York Times

Like William Trevor, Boswell handles his disasters offhandedly.

The New Yorker

"An obit writer," she said offhandedly.

The New York Times

They should be celebrated — not dismissed offhandedly!

The New York Times

"This is probably way too intellectualized," Eustis said, offhandedly.

The New Yorker

"Reality's all right," he says offhandedly.

The New York Times

"It turned out pretty good," he remarked offhandedly.

The New York Times

"I lie a lot," she tells Clay offhandedly.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "state offhandedly" to convey a sense of casualness or lack of importance when someone makes a remark. It's most effective when the content of the statement contrasts with the speaker's detached manner.

Common error

Avoid using "state offhandedly" excessively, as it can make characters sound dismissive or uninterested, even when that isn't the intention. Consider alternative phrasing to better reflect the nuance of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state offhandedly" functions as an adverbial modifier, describing the manner in which something is stated. It indicates that a statement is made casually, without much thought or emphasis. Ludwig indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

News & Media

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Science

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "state offhandedly" serves as an adverbial modifier to describe a casual and seemingly unimportant manner of speaking. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for conveying a dismissive or uninterested tone. While suitable for neutral to informal contexts, it is less common in formal or technical settings. Related phrases such as "mention casually" or "remark in passing" can offer alternative ways to express similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mention casually

Focuses on the casual aspect of the statement, without necessarily implying dismissal.

remark in passing

Highlights the brief and transient nature of the comment.

say flippantly

Emphasizes the lack of seriousness or respect in the statement.

comment lightly

Indicates a lack of depth or weight in the remark.

observe casually

Stresses the relaxed and informal manner of the observation.

drop a hint

Suggests a subtle or indirect way of making a statement.

imply indirectly

Focuses on conveying a message without explicitly stating it.

throwaway comment

Highlights the unplanned and unimportant nature of the remark.

utter thoughtlessly

Underlines the lack of consideration or care in the statement.

declare nonchalantly

Focuses on the casualness and lack of concern in making the declaration.

FAQs

How can I use "state offhandedly" in a sentence?

You can use "state offhandedly" to describe someone making a casual or seemingly unimportant remark. For example: "During the meeting, she "mentioned casually" that she might be leaving the company soon."

What are some alternatives to "state offhandedly"?

Alternatives include "mention casually", "remark in passing", or "say flippantly", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "state offhandedly" or "mention casually"?

"State offhandedly" implies a more dismissive or less considered remark than "mention casually". Choose the phrasing that best reflects the speaker's attitude and the context of the conversation.

When should I avoid using "state offhandedly"?

Avoid using "state offhandedly" when you want to emphasize the importance or seriousness of a statement. In such cases, more direct and deliberate phrasing would be more appropriate.