quick off the mark
Fast to begin
Quick off the mark means responding or reacting swiftly, especially at the start of something.
The mark is the starting line in a race—someone quick off it gains an early advantage.
The phrase describes people who act promptly when opportunities arise or situations demand: She was quick off the mark with an answer before anyone else could speak.
Speedy, or skip eating
instant · lightning-fast · split-second · hair-trigger · snap · immediate · instantaneous · fleet
Quick and light-moving
- agileLimber and quick-moving
- sprightlyEnergetic and nimble
- spryLively despite years
- deftSkillful and quick
dexterous · lithe · light-footed · springy · bouncy · lively · dynamic · energetic
Keenly aware of danger
- attentivePaying close notice
- observantNoticing things readily
- watchfulCarefully attentive, observant
- sharpFine-edged, or astute
keen · aware · focused · perceptive · astute · eagle-eyed · heads-up · wary
fast
Speedy, or skip eating
prompt · instant · lightning-fast · split-second · hair-trigger · snap · immediate · instantaneous · fleet · brisk
nimble
Quick and light-moving
deft · dexterous · lithe · light-footed · springy · bouncy · lively · dynamic · energetic · athletic
vigilant
Keenly aware of danger
sharp · keen · aware · focused · perceptive · astute · eagle-eyed · heads-up · wary · heedful
enthusiastic
Showing intense eager enjoyment
hungry · motivated · proactive · ambitious · gung-ho · impatient · zealous · earnest · driven · go-getter
head-start
Initial advantage given
- front-runnerLikely winner
- leadDense metal, symbol Pb
- sprintBrief maximum-speed effort
dash · burst · explosive · launch · takeoff · breakaway · surge
- Fast Startshit the ground running, off to the races, flying start, jump start, head start
quick off the markslow off the mark
Delayed in responding
slow to react · sluggish · behind the curve · late to the party · slow on the uptake
quick off the markslow on the uptake
Comprehending things belatedly
dim-witted · slow-witted · asleep at the wheel · caught napping · flat-footed
quick, quicker, quickest, quickly, quicken, quickens, quickened, quickening, quickness