English

Verb

think on one's feet

1. (idiomatic) When one is in the middle of a process, activity, or conversation, to adjust rapidly, effectively, and intelligently to new developments or changing circumstances.
   • 1901, Henry B. Fuller, Under the Skylights, ch. 24:

     "There will be wine," said Medora. "Drink it. There may be toasts. Be ready to respond."

     Abner could think on his feet—speech would not fail.

   • c. 1919, Elbert Hubbard, Little Journeys, Volume 9: Great Reformers, "Richard Cobden":

     The political canvass had given freedom to his wings; he had learned to think on his feet, to meet interruption, to parry in debate.

   • 2007 Sept. 16, Karen Crouse, "Covering New Ground, Jets’ Clemens Relies on Deep Roots ," New York Times (retrieved 7 Nov 2011):

     Clemens had to think on his feet, adjust on the run, make split-second decisions and, if he messed up, contend with the consequences.

Synonyms

• extemporize, improvise