have a shufti

have a shufti

To look at something briefly. ("Shufti" originated as a military term.) Primarily heard in UK. Wait, if you're just going to donate these clothes, can I have a shufti first? Some of these dresses are cute!
See also: have, shufti
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

have/take a ˈshufti (at somebody/something)

(British English, informal) have a (quick) look (at somebody/something): I don’t mind having a shufti at the bike, but I can’t afford to buy it.This comes from military slang, from an Arabic word meaning try to see.
See also: have, shufti, take
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • shufti
  • have/take a shufti
  • be to do with (something)
  • be/have to do with somebody/something
  • glance over at (someone or something)
  • medallion man
  • worthwhile cause
  • have to do with
References in periodicals archive
Occasionally he would have a shufti at the newspaper.
Language is a living thing; Views of the North
Or more specifically, have a shufti towards the senior management offices.
Adland's meritocracy will be a great leveller