Definition

Noun: * A quick, brief look or glance, often a casual inspection of an area. This word originates from British military slang, particularly associated with the British Army in the Middle East, and implies a swift, observant scan of one's surroundings.

Usage

The word "shufti" is informal and somewhat dated. It is primarily used in British English to describe the act of taking a quick, casual look. It often carries a connotation of checking something out or having a quick scout around.

Examples

• "Take a shufti at this report and tell me what you think."
• "I'll just have a quick shufti in the cupboard to see if it's there."
• "The sergeant told the soldier to have a shufti over the ridge."

Advanced Usage

• The phrase "to have/take a shufti (at something)" is the standard construction. The preposition "at" or "around" is commonly used.
  • Let's have a shufti around the market before we buy anything.

Variants and Related Words

• Shufty: An alternative, less common spelling with the same meaning.
  • I had a quick shufty in the manual.

Synonyms

• Look: A general term for directing one's gaze.
• Glance: A very brief or hurried look.
• Gander (informal): A quick look (e.g., "Take a gander at this").
• Squint (informal, UK): A quick look.
• Reconnaissance: A formal/military term for a preliminary survey, which captures the original military sense of "shufti."

Related Idioms/Phrases

• To have/take a shufti: The standard idiomatic phrase for using this word.
  • Why don't you have a shufti and see if you can find it?

Noun

1. a quick look around (originally military slang)
   • take a shufti while you're out there