quick off the mark
Time & pace · Filed under Q
In a sentence
- She was quick off the mark, answering the question correctly before anyone else had a chance.
- The company was quick off the mark, responding immediately to the customer's complaint.
- He was quick off the mark in starting his homework right after school.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "quick off the mark" is commonly used in both British and American English. It means to be quick to react or respond to something, often describing someone who can think or act quickly in a situation.
Its origin can be traced back to horse racing, where the mark is a line on the ground used to start the race. Horses are lined up behind the mark, and being quick off the mark is crucial for their chances of winning.
Furthermore, this idiom can be used figuratively to describe people who are quick to respond in a conversation or argument, or who are quick to take advantage of opportunities. It can also describe those who are quick to understand or learn something.
The idiom "quick on the draw" is related to "quick off the mark". It is often used to describe someone who is quick to react or respond, especially in a competitive or confrontational situation. Just like being quick off the mark in horse racing, being quick on the draw can give someone an advantage.
The idiom "quick off the mark" is commonly used to describe someone who is quick to react or respond. Its origin in horse racing highlights the importance of being quick off the mark. Furthermore, related idioms like "quick on the draw", "off the bat", and "quick-fire" all emphasize the idea of quickness and speed in different contexts.
Neighbouring idioms
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.