bluff
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /blʌf/
KK: /blʌf/
adjective
Definition
Having a wide and steep front, often used to describe a landscape or geographical feature.
Example
The bluff overlooking the river provided a stunning view of the valley below.
Conversation
I met this new guy at the park, and he has a really bluff personality.
Oh really? Is he nice to talk to?
Yeah, he’s a bit rough around the edges, but in a good way.
Sounds like he could be a fun friend to hang out with!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
blunt
broad
gruff
Antonyms
gentle
soft
tactful
intransitive verb
Definition
To pretend to be stronger or more confident than one really is, often to deceive others.
Example
He decided to bluff his way through the interview, acting as if he had all the right answers.
Tense Forms
Past: bluffed
Past Participle: bluffed
Conversation
I can't believe he tried to bluff his way through that game.
Right? Everyone saw right through him.
Yeah, you can't just bluff when everyone knows your skill level.
noun
Definition
A steep area of land, like a cliff or riverbank, that rises sharply from the ground.
Example
The hikers stood at the edge of the bluff, looking out over the valley below.
Conversation
Did you see how he tried to make a big deal about that bluff in the game?
Yeah, it was pretty obvious he was just pretending to be tough.
Right? I think everyone could see through his bluff.
transitive verb
Definition
To deceive someone by pretending to have a stronger position or better abilities than one actually does.
Example
He tried to bluff his way through the interview by pretending to know more than he actually did.
Tense Forms
Past: bluffed
Past Participle: bluffed
Conversation
Did you see how he tried to bluff in that last hand?
Yeah, it was pretty obvious he was just pretending to have a good hand.
I thought he was going to lose for sure when he bluffed like that.
Root Explanation
The word 'bluff' originates from the Dutch word 'bluffen', meaning to brag or boast. It refers to a bold or deceptive display, often in the context of pretending to be stronger or more confident than one actually is.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'bragging' or 'boasting' — that's what bluffing is about, showing a bold front even if it's not true.
Visually Confused Words
luff
buff
rebluff
pluff
luffa
fluff
cluff
buffy