# iffy

/ˈɪfi/ (US) · /ˈɪfi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/iffy
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

describing something that is not certain or not very good. You use this when you are unsure if a plan will work or if a situation is safe.

For teachers: uncertain, doubtful, or of questionable quality. Informal in register; frequently used to describe the reliability of a person, the safety of a situation, or the success of a plan.

## Examples

- The weather is iffy for tomorrow, so we might stay home.
- I'm not sure if the old bridge is safe to cross; it feels a bit iffy under the car.
- While the initial data looked promising, the researchers remained cautious, noting that the long-term results were still iffy and required further observation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.