Slow on the uptake Meaning in English
expression
SLOH on thuh UP-tayk
sl-OH on thuh UP-tayk
Definition
Describes someone who takes longer than others to understand new information or ideas.
Usage & Nuances
This informal expression is mildly critical and should be used carefully to avoid offending someone. It often refers to understanding jokes, instructions, or explanations. Opposite: 'quick on the uptake.'
Spanish: lento para entender - despistadoPortuguese (BR): lento para entender - lerdo para perceberPortuguese (PT): lento a perceber - devagar a apanharChinese (Simplified): 反应慢 - 理解慢Chinese (Traditional): 反應慢 - 理解慢Hindi: समझने में धीमाArabic: بطيء الفهمBengali: বোঝায় ধীর - একটু ধীরগতি (বুঝতে)Russian: туго соображает - медленно доходитJapanese: 飲み込みが遅いVietnamese: chậm hiểu - tiếp thu chậmKorean: 이해가 느린 - 눈치가 느린Turkish: geç kavrayan - anlamakta yavaşUrdu: سمجھنے میں سستIndonesian: lambat menangkap - kurang cepat memahami
Example Sentences
Tom is slow on the uptake in math class.
basic
If you are slow on the uptake, ask for help.
basic
My little brother is sometimes slow on the uptake.
basic
I'm a bit slow on the uptake when it comes to computer stuff.
natural
Don’t worry if you’re slow on the uptake—everyone learns at their own pace.
natural
He’s not slow on the uptake; he just likes to think things through before answering.
natural