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uptake

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quick on the uptake

quick to understand or learn something. Just because I'm not quick on the uptake, it doesn't mean I'm stupid. Mary understands jokes before anyone else because she's so quick on the uptake.

See also: on, quick, uptake

slow on the uptake

not able to understand something quickly I tried to explain how the new software works to my manager, but he's a little slow on the uptake.

Usage notes: also used in the form quick on the uptake (able to understand something quickly): He was quick on the uptake and able to realize right away what was wrong.

See also: on, slow, uptake

be slow on the uptake

to be slow to understand new ideas I tried to explain the new database, but they were remarkably slow on the uptake.

See also: on, slow, uptake

on the uptake

In understanding or comprehension. This term is most often put as quick on the uptake, for readily understanding something, and slow on the uptake, for being slow to comprehend. For example, Shirley will have no trouble learning that new computer program-she's very quick on the uptake . It alludes to absorbing ("taking up") information. [Early 1800s]

See also: on, uptake