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

The generative-AI revolution has transformed nearly every aspect of our lives, yet Apple has been slower on the uptake, with meh Apple Intelligence features and a delayed smarter Siri.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2025

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

From Salon • Oct. 17, 2023

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 • Aug. 3, 2023

“Quick on the uptake, man. I always say that about you.”

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides