think on (one's) feet
think on (one's) feet
To be able to think clearly in times of stress, especially when forming a solution to a pressing problem. Thank goodness you were able to think on your feet and find another way to stop the pipe from leaking. The whole basement would have flooded otherwise.
See also: feet, on, think
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
think on one's feet
Fig. to be able to speak and reason well while (standing and talking) in front of an audience, especially extemporaneously. She really thinks on her feet well. I am not able to think on my feet too well before a bunch of people.
See also: feet, on, think
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
think on one's feet
React quickly, be mentally agile, as in Reporters bombarded him with difficult questions, but Bill was very good at thinking on his feet . This expression uses on one's feet in the sense of "wide awake, alertly." [First half of 1900s]
See also: feet, on, think
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
think on your feet
If you think on your feet, you make good decisions quickly and react quickly when things change. We always have room for a guy who can think on his feet. Being a parent means thinking on your feet and adapting as you go along.
See also: feet, on, think
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
think on your feet
react to events quickly and effectively.See also: feet, on, think
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
think on your ˈfeet
think very quickly: When he asked me why I wasn’t at work, I had to think on my feet and I invented an excuse about going to see the doctor. Lawyers in court need to be able to think on their feet.See also: feet, on, think
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- think on feet
- think on one's feet
- think on your feet
- go critical
- get through to (someone or something)
- able to take just so much
- able to take only so much
- sleep
- all able-bodied people
- able to make an event