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

See Examples For:

on the uptake

It’s expected to cover more than 100 acres and cost about $350 million, a grand ambition for a guy who jokes about being slow on the uptake.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 15, 2026

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

So, that the next generations aren’t so slow on the uptake, the latest project from this ultraproductive vegetable grower is a no-dig book for children.

From Seattle Times ● Mar. 29, 2023

Luckily, he wasn't too quick on the uptake.

From "Inkheart" by Cornelia Funke