Quick On The Draw

Also: Quick on the Trigger

Meaning of Idiom ‘Quick on the Draw

To be quick on the draw means to be very fast reacting to a situation or to be quick to action in general.

Examples Of Use

“Comedians dealing with hecklers have to be quick on the draw.”

“Don’t let Arthur’s quiet manner fool you. He’s quick on the draw when provoked.”

“He’s quick on the draw, but rarely gives direct answers.”

Origin

This American idiom is based on the ability to draw (take out) a gun and fire it quickly and comes from gunslingers of the old west who had to be able to react quickly to threats. The meaning of quick on the draw, during the 1800’s was broadened to mean ‘a quick reaction.’ (Source)

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