Imagine seeing a friend’s homemade cake that’s a little messy but still impressive. You want to say it’s good without sounding overly formal—this is the perfect moment for “not too shabby.” In this post, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, and examples of this playful idiom.
Meaning of Not Too Shabby
“Not too shabby” is an informal English idiom used to describe something that is better than expected or quite good.
It can be used in several ways:
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Praise: To compliment someone or something.
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Example: “Your painting is not too shabby!”
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Self-effacing acknowledgment: To modestly comment on your own success.
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Example: “I scored 85 on the exam—not too shabby.”
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In short: “Not too shabby” = pretty good or impressive.
Origin of Not Too Shabby
The phrase “not too shabby” has roots in early 20th-century American and British slang. “Shabby” originally meant worn-out or poor quality, so saying something is “not too shabby” is like saying it’s not bad at all.
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The first recorded usage dates back to the 1920s, where it appeared in casual speech and newspapers.
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Linguists suggest the phrase became popular because it’s a humorous understatement, making compliments feel light and friendly.
Though its exact origin is uncertain, most sources agree it evolved from everyday English to become a staple of playful, informal praise.
Examples in Sentences
Here are some ways you can use “not too shabby” in conversation:
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Casual praise: “Your new haircut is not too shabby!”
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Modest self-praise: “I managed to fix the sink myself—not too shabby, if I say so myself.”
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Workplace compliment: “Your presentation was not too shabby; it impressed the client.”
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Social media comment: “This cake looks not too shabby. Can I get the recipe?”
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Friendly comparison: “Her singing is not too shabby compared to the professionals.”
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Expressing surprise: “You ran 5 kilometers in 25 minutes? Not too shabby!”
Similar Idioms or Phrases
If you love “not too shabby”, you might also enjoy these similar expressions:
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Pretty good – Simple and straightforward.
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Could be worse – Often used modestly to downplay expectations.
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Looking sharp – Complimenting appearance or style.
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Fairly impressive – Slightly more formal than “not too shabby.”
I’ve always found “not too shabby” to be a fun way to give compliments without sounding over-the-top. I often use it with friends when praising a meal they cooked or a small achievement—they get the sense I’m impressed but staying lighthearted. It’s friendly, casual, and a little cheeky—exactly my style!
To wrap up, “not too shabby” is a versatile idiom that’s perfect for casual compliments or modest self-praise. It’s easy to use, lighthearted, and adds a touch of humor to your conversations.
Do you use “not too shabby” in your everyday conversations? Share your examples in the comments!