ENGLISH
REFERENCE

quick on the uptake

idiom
Meaning

Able to readily understand things; aware and intelligent.


Examples
SIMPLE

She's quick on the uptake, so she learned fast.

CONTEXTUAL

The new intern is quick on the uptake and understood the software after just one demonstration.

COMPLEX

Though he had never studied law, the witness proved quick on the uptake, grasping the barrister's subtle questions and answering with unexpected precision.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    make quick work of

    To accomplish a specified task easily and quickly.

  2. 02

    quick as a flash

    Extremely quick.

  3. 03

    quick as lightning

    Extremely quick.

  4. 04

    quick buck

    A large sum of money earned easily and quickly.

  5. 05

    quick off the mark

    fast to act or react

  6. 06

    quick on one's feet

    sharp-witted.

  7. 07

    quick on the draw

    Characterized by rapid response, as to a verbal remark or to a new situation; quick to act.

  8. 08

    quick read

    A book, periodical, or other printed matter that is enjoyable to read and can be read quickly.

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