Be quick/slow on the uptake
phrase
To understand or realize something quickly/slowly.
She was quick on the uptake and completed the task in no-time. John on the other hand was rather slow on the uptake.
Often appears as...
- he's quick on the uptake
- she's slow on the uptake
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To understand or realize something quickly/slowly.
She was quick on the uptake and completed the task in no-time. John on the other hand was rather slow on the uptake.
Often appears as...
- he's quick on the uptake
- she's slow on the uptake
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Figurative Meaning
The phrase is figurative and doesn't involve physical speed but mental understanding.
Despite the complex topic, Mia was quick on the uptake.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Insulting
Saying someone is slow on the uptake is not necessarily insulting but may suggest they need more time.
Give him some time; he's a bit slow on the uptake.
Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone
This phrase is mostly neutral and can be used in informal and some formal contexts.
Our new intern is quick on the uptake; she'll fit in well.
Pro Tip 1/3Figurative Meaning
The phrase is figurative and doesn't involve physical speed but mental understanding.
Despite the complex topic, Mia was quick on the uptake.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Insulting
Saying someone is slow on the uptake is not necessarily insulting but may suggest they need more time.
Give him some time; he's a bit slow on the uptake.
Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone
This phrase is mostly neutral and can be used in informal and some formal contexts.
Our new intern is quick on the uptake; she'll fit in well.
Pro Tip 1/3Figurative Meaning
The phrase is figurative and doesn't involve physical speed but mental understanding.
Despite the complex topic, Mia was quick on the uptake.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Insulting
Saying someone is slow on the uptake is not necessarily insulting but may suggest they need more time.
Give him some time; he's a bit slow on the uptake.
Pro Tip 3/3Neutral Tone
This phrase is mostly neutral and can be used in informal and some formal contexts.
Our new intern is quick on the uptake; she'll fit in well.
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