as agile as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as agile as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare someone's quickness or adaptability to that of a specific animal or object known for its agility. Example: "She navigated the crowded room as agile as a cat, effortlessly weaving through the guests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

He got up like a cat, as agile as a cat, an agility I would never expect in a man as old as he was, and he left me.

The New Yorker

Since the volume (and hence weight) of an animal increases by the cube of its length, it is physically impossible for an elephant to be as agile as a cat, no matter how great an adaptive advantage such agility might provide.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was said to be as agile as a cat.

The New Yorker

He enters the property by the kitchen window, squeezing himself through — thank God he is small and as agile as a cat on the prowl.

The New Yorker

Jérôme Correas, a bass, infuses the text with dramatic urgency and Béatrice Mayo Felip's sparkling soprano is as agile as a flute.

The New York Times - Arts

We appreciate that when you are that age your reflexes are not as agile as a man in his 40s, 50s or 60s.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

In short, the handset worked great, its touchscreen was as agile as any I had seen and its browsing experience was top-shelf.

Forbes

On one hand, Shiancoe's movement is confirmation of Shockey's talent: Shiancoe does not appear to be as quick or as agile as Shockey, a 252-pound tight end who plays like someone 50 pounds lighter.

The New York Times - Sports

"The other guy, Bledsoe, is a guy who stands in the pocket, is not as agile as Brady and throws a very nice long ball.

The New York Times - Sports

High-end waiters don't seem as agile as those in diners; an extra table or two can throw them off.

The New York Times - Food

Remember to stay low, knees bent, to be as agile as possible when against an opposing player.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the simile "as agile as a", consider the specific animal or object you're comparing to, ensuring it's a well-known symbol of agility to maximize impact and clarity.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on the common "as agile as a cat". Explore less predictable comparisons to make your writing more original and engaging. For example, "as agile as a squirrel" or "as agile as a gymnast" might be more fitting depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as agile as a" functions as a simile, used to draw a comparison between the agility of one subject and a reference point commonly associated with agility. This comparative function enhances descriptions by creating a vivid image of quickness and nimbleness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as agile as a" serves as a simile to effectively illustrate a subject's quickness and nimbleness by comparing it to a universally recognized standard of agility. According to Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase, though more suited for descriptive or narrative contexts than formal writing. Predominantly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science sources, users should consider the specific comparison to enhance clarity and avoid clichés. Explore alternatives like "as nimble as a" or "as quick as a" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as flexible as a

Replaces "agile" with "flexible", focusing on the ability to bend or adapt easily.

as graceful as a

Emphasizes elegance and fluidity of movement instead of raw agility.

as limber as a

Highlights the ability to stretch and bend easily.

as responsive as a

Emphasizes quick reaction and sensitivity to stimuli.

as resilient as a

Shifts the focus to the ability to recover quickly from difficulties, rather than physical agility.

as dynamic as a

Focuses on constant change and activity, implying quick adaptation.

as versatile as a

Highlights adaptability and skill in various situations rather than physical quickness.

as streamlined as a

Highlights efficiency and ease of movement due to design or form.

as lightweight as a

Focuses on the lack of weight or burden, an indirect enabler of agility.

as lean as a

Implies efficiency and lack of unnecessary bulk, contributing to agility.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "as agile as a" in a sentence?

Use "as agile as a" to vividly describe someone or something's nimbleness, linking it to a universally understood symbol of agility. For example, "The dancer was "as agile as a cat" on the stage".

What are some alternatives to "as agile as a"?

Depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, you can use alternatives like "as nimble as a", "as quick as a", or "as lithe as a".

When is it appropriate to use "as agile as a" in formal writing?

While "as agile as a" is generally acceptable, it's more suited to descriptive or narrative contexts. In highly formal writing, consider direct, less figurative language that conveys the same meaning with greater precision.

What does "agile" actually mean in the phrase "as agile as a"?

In the phrase "as agile as a", "agile" means having the ability to move quickly and easily; nimble. It implies dexterity and swiftness in movement.