What does “Squiffy” mean?
The slang phrase "Squiffy" refers to someone who is starting to get drunk but is not yet fully intoxicated. When someone is described as "Squiffy", it means they are in the early stages of alcohol consumption and may be displaying some signs of intoxication, such as lowered inhibitions or slightly impaired motor skills.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
After a few cocktails, she started feeling a bit squiffy.
Example
He enjoys a glass of wine with dinner but never gets squiffy.
Example
It's a fine line between being squiffy and being fully drunk.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing the effects of alcohol
After a few cocktails, she started feeling a bit squiffy.
He enjoys a glass of wine with dinner but never gets squiffy.
- 2Highlighting the fine line between being drunk and sober
It's a fine line between being squiffy and being fully drunk.
She was only squiffy at the party, not completely intoxicated.
- 3Comparing levels of intoxication
He's just tipsy, not fully squiffy yet.
She's already halfway to being drunk, definitely squiffy.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The term "squiffy" originated in the United Kingdom and is commonly used in British English. It is believed to have derived from the word 'skew-whiff', which means crooked or askew.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "squiffy" is typically used in a sentence to describe someone's level of intoxication, it can also be used on its own to convey the same meaning. For example, if someone asks how you're feeling after a few drinks, you might simply respond with "Squiffy" to indicate that you're starting to feel a bit drunk.
Is the phrase offensive?
The term "squiffy" is not offensive. It is a slang adjective used to describe someone who is on the way to being drunk but not yet fully intoxicated.
Audience for the phrase
The term "squiffy" is commonly used in the United Kingdom and is more familiar to British English speakers. It is often used in casual conversations among friends or in social settings where alcohol is involved.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The term "squiffy" is specific to the United Kingdom and is not widely used in other English-speaking regions.
