quick thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

"quick thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to the act of making decisions quickly and efficiently. For example, "My quick thinking saved me when I had to give a speech without preparation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Quick thinking, Card.

The Economist

Quick thinking in midfield.

The Guardian - Sport

"Quick thinking and spontaneity.

The Guardian - Film

Others required quick thinking.

The New York Times

Quick thinking on Dolan's part (he leapt on stage and sorted it out) saved the day.

Independent

Quick thinking by Slotin saved the lives of Schreiber and the others in the room.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

We think of ourselves as a quick-thinking, hardy lot, but we're getting killed out there.

The New York Times

His bravery, professionalism, and quick-thinking are impressive.

The Economist

There were apparently some quick-thinking, well-informed people in the operating room.

The New York Times - Health

He was praised for his quick-thinking actions since his role in helping customers.

Independent

Only a quick-thinking Puerto Rican shopkeeper saved the rabbi from serious damage.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quick thinking" when you want to emphasize the speed and effectiveness of someone's mental processes in response to a situation. This phrase is particularly effective in describing actions taken under pressure or in emergencies.

Common error

Avoid using "quick thinking" when the situation requires deliberate, methodical analysis. "Strategic planning" or "critical analysis" may be more appropriate if speed is not the primary factor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quick thinking" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used adjectivally to describe a person's ability. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and common in use. For instance, the examples show it describing actions that "saved the day" or qualities that impressed others.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Quick thinking" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the ability to think and react rapidly, especially in challenging situations. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for general use and commonly found in news articles. When using "quick thinking", ensure the context emphasizes the speed and efficiency of the thought process. If the situation calls for more deliberate analysis, consider alternative phrases like "strategic planning" or "critical analysis". Related terms like "rapid cognition" and "agile intellect" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. Remember to consider alternative phrases, like "prompt decision-making", based on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prompt decision-making

Highlights the speed and readiness in making decisions.

agile intellect

Highlights mental agility and adaptability in thinking.

nimble mindedness

Emphasizes the flexibility and quickness of the mind.

swift reasoning

Emphasizes the speed and efficiency of logical thought.

expeditious thought

Emphasizes the speed and efficiency of the thinking process.

rapid cognition

Focuses on the speed of cognitive processes rather than the action taken.

improvisational skill

Highlights the ability to think on one's feet and create solutions in the moment.

resourceful mind

Stresses the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

astute judgment

Focuses on the accuracy and wisdom of the quick thinking.

sharp wit

Refers to clever and often humorous thinking, usually in response to something.

FAQs

How to use "quick thinking" in a sentence?

You can use "quick thinking" to describe someone's ability to solve problems rapidly, such as: "Her quick thinking saved the day when the system crashed." or "The success of the project was due to his quick thinking and problem-solving skills".

What can I say instead of "quick thinking"?

You can use alternatives like "rapid cognition", "swift reasoning", or "agile intellect" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "quick thinking" or "fast thinking"?

Both "quick thinking" and "fast thinking" are acceptable, but "quick thinking" is generally preferred in formal writing. "Fast thinking" is more commonly used in informal contexts.

What's the difference between "quick thinking" and "strategic thinking"?

"Quick thinking" refers to the ability to come up with solutions rapidly, often in response to unexpected situations. "Strategic thinking", on the other hand, involves a more planned and deliberate approach to problem-solving over a longer period. Both might be related, but in different situations.