Englishkeep one's wits about one
Meaning: To pay attention and be ready to react.
Example: “Driving in this fog, you need to keep your wits about you.”
Origin: "Wit" traces to Old English wit and the related verb witan, to know — at its root, always about mental sharpness, understanding, and awareness rather than humor, which is a considerably later, narrower sense the word also picked up. "Keep one's wits about one," for staying mentally alert and quick-thinking especially under pressure or in a crisis, is documented from the early 1600s. The phrase pictures one's mental faculties almost as physical possessions that could be lost or scattered under stress, needing to be actively gathered and "kept close" rather than left to wander when clear thinking matters most.
More English idioms
- kick up one's heels To have a lively and fun time, usually at a party or dance.
- knock someone for a loop To shock, surprise, or astound someone.
- not know if one is coming or going To be confused and disoriented.
- not know someone from Adam To be unable to recognize someone because the person is a stranger.
- know the ins and outs To be familiar with the details and hidden meanings of an activity or situation.
- know the ropes To be familiar with a task or situation.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Sei una persona d'oro You're genuinely wonderful — kind, trustworthy, and precious to have in one's life.
- Che spettacolo! You look absolutely stunning — a spontaneous burst of admiration for someone's appearance.
- Du bist ein Goldstück You're a real gem — priceless, irreplaceable, and deeply appreciated.
Keep exploring