think on one's feet

Definitions

1. 1

   When one is in the middle of a process, activity, or conversation, to adjust rapidly,…

   When one is in the middle of a process, activity, or conversation, to adjust rapidly, effectively, and intelligently to new developments or changing circumstances.

   • "There will be wine," said Medora. "Drink it. There may be toasts. Be ready to respond." Abner could think on his feet—speech would not fail.
   • The political canvass had given freedom to his wings; he had learned to think on his feet, to meet interruption, to parry in debate.
   • Clemens had to think on his feet, adjust on the run, make split-second decisions and, if he messed up, contend with the consequences.

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