# think on one's feet

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/think-on-ones-feet
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

When one is in the middle of a process, activity, or conversation, to adjust rapidly, effectively, and intelligently to new developments or changing circumstances.

## Examples

- You must learn to think on your feet during job interviews.
- When the projector broke during his presentation, he had to think on his feet and explain the slides without any images.
- The seasoned diplomat proved his worth by thinking on his feet, skillfully navigating the unexpected objections raised by the opposition during the high-stakes negotiations.

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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.