on the uptake

Idioms  

1. 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]

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Example Sentences

To be fair, a lot of us have been slow on the uptake when it comes to understanding why so many young men seem drawn to the obvious loneliness and disconnection of chronically online lives.

From Los Angeles Times

L.A. is a little slower on the uptake but that is sure to change as padel’s popularity grows.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s no huge surprise that Kevin McCarthy is a little slow on the uptake.

From Salon

Anyway, Henry and Alex are beyond adorable despite maybe being not quite as quick on the uptake as one might wish.

From Seattle Times

A Fed survey of senior financial officers at nearly 100 banks released this week sheds some new light on the uptake for the new lending facility set up in March.

From Reuters