as agile as a cat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as agile as a cat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is very quick and nimble, often in a physical context. Example: "The gymnast moved across the balance beam as agile as a cat, impressing the judges with her grace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 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

And who needs one that is as agile as a cat?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The light-weight design makes it as agile as a ballet dancer.

BBC

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

WikiHow

I don't think there's been a conductor as agile as he is.

Los Angeles Times

To have a guy as big as he is, as agile as he is, with athletic ability.

The New York Times - Sports

Martin is not a mauling blocker, nor is he as agile as top left tackles.

The New York Times

López was as calm and as agile as Madridistas remember him to be.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as agile as a cat" when you want to emphasize someone's or something's quickness, flexibility, and grace in movement. This simile is particularly effective when describing physical abilities or reactions.

Common error

Avoid using "as agile as a cat" to describe purely mental quickness or problem-solving skills. While cats are intelligent, the simile specifically refers to physical agility. For mental acuity, consider phrases like "as sharp as a tack" or "quick-witted".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as agile as a cat" functions as a simile, a figure of speech that compares two unlike things using "as" or "like". It emphasizes the agility of something by likening it to the perceived agility of a cat. Ludwig confirms the correct usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the simile "as agile as a cat" is a grammatically correct and understandable expression used to describe someone or something with notable quickness, flexibility, and grace. As shown by Ludwig, its use is particularly common in journalism and general descriptive writing. While not overly formal, the phrase is widely recognized. For formal contexts, more technical descriptions of agility might be needed. When employing this simile, focus on physical agility and avoid applying it to purely mental attributes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quick as a cat

Replaces "agile" with "quick", emphasizing speed rather than overall nimbleness.

nimble as a cat

Substitutes "agile" with "nimble", highlighting dexterity and ease of movement.

as spry as a cat

Uses "spry" to suggest youthful energy and agility, especially in older individuals.

lithe as a cat

Emphasizes the flexibility and gracefulness of movement.

graceful as a cat

Highlights the elegance and fluidity of movement, focusing on aesthetics.

fleet-footed as a cat

Focuses on the speed and lightness of foot movement.

as deft as a cat

Highlights skillful and quick movements, implying expertise.

as acrobatic as a cat

Emphasizes agility in performing complex and daring physical feats.

cat-like reflexes

Shifts from a simile to a direct reference to a cat's reaction time, highlighting speed and responsiveness.

move with feline grace

Uses "feline grace" to describe a smooth, elegant, and agile way of moving, directly referencing cats.

FAQs

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

You can use "as agile as a cat" to describe someone or something that moves quickly and gracefully. For example, "The dancer moved across the stage "as agile as a cat"."

What's a good alternative to "as agile as a cat"?

Alternatives include "quick as a cat", "nimble as a cat", or "lithe as a cat", depending on the specific aspect of agility you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "as agile as a cat" in formal writing?

While "as agile as a cat" is widely understood, it might be more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using more precise and technical language to describe agility.

Can "as agile as a cat" be used metaphorically?

Yes, but be mindful of the context. While primarily used for physical agility, you can use it metaphorically to describe adaptability or responsiveness to change. However, ensure it aligns with the physical connotation of the phrase.