having one's wits about one
Sharp and aware
To have one's wits about one is to be alert, clearheaded, and ready to respond to whatever arises.
The phrase implies mental sharpness under pressure—someone who keeps their wits about them doesn't panic or freeze: She kept her wits about her during the emergency and got everyone out safely.
The negative suggests confusion or lost composure: I barely had my wits about me after the overnight flight.
- quick-thinkingMentally rapid, resourceful
- thinking on one's feetResponding quickly without preparation
- mental acuitySharpness of thought
- sharp as a tackExtremely intelligent and alert
- resourcefulnessAbility to solve problems creatively
alertness · situational awareness · eyes wide open · responsiveness · self-control · keeping cool · calmness · attentiveness · presence of mind · intelligence · clarity · decisiveness · readiness · improvisation · discernment · poise · equanimity · on the ball
having one's wits about onepanicked
Overwhelmed by sudden fear
losing one's head · flustered · in a panic · rattled · confused
having one's wits about oneout of it
Lacking awareness or alertness
spaced out · zoned out · oblivious · absent-minded · in a fog