Toff
Meaning: An upper-class or wealthy person
A somewhat dismissive term for a wealthy, upper-class person, often implying they are out of touch with ordinary people. Can be affectionate or critical.
Examples
- The toffs in their country estates. 住在乡间庄园里的阔佬们Los pijos en sus fincas rurales田舎の邸宅に住むお金持ちたち시골 저택에 사는 부유층.
- He's a bit of a toff. 他有点像个阔少爷Es un poco pijo彼はちょっとお坊ちゃんだ그는 좀 도련님 같은 구석이 있다.
- All the toffs were at the races. 阔佬们都去看赛马了Todos los pijos estaban en las carrerasお金持ちたちが皆競馬にいた부유층이 다들 경마장에 있었다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: informal, class discussion
Tone: slightly dismissive, sometimes affectionate
✓ Do Say
- The local toffs当地的阔佬们los pijos del lugar地元のお金持ちたち동네 부자들
- A right toff十足的阔少爷todo un pijoまさにお坊ちゃん영락없는 도련님
✗ Don't Say
- Can be seen as class resentment可能被视为阶级仇恨Puede interpretarse como resentimiento de clase階級的な反感と受け取られることがある계급 반감으로 비칠 수 있음
Common Mistakes
- Using to someone's face
Origin & History
Possibly from 'tuft'—the gold tassel worn by titled students at Oxford. Or from 'toffee-nosed.' Used since the 19th century for wealthy upper-class men.
Etymology: Possibly from tuft (Oxford gold tassel)
First recorded: 19th century
Cultural Context
Era: 19th century onwards
Generation: All generations
Social background: Working/middle class term for upper class
Pop culture: British class commentary
Regional notes: British class terminology.
Variations
Related Phrases
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