# have one's wits about one

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/have-ones-wits-about-one
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To remain calm, composed, focused, or aware.

## Examples

- You must have your wits about you in this busy city.
- The road was icy and dangerous, so she had her wits about her to avoid an accident.
- Even when the negotiations turned hostile, the experienced diplomat had her wits about her and managed to secure a peaceful agreement.

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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.