IdiomDaily LifeEnglish

slow on the uptake

Meaning: Slow to understand.

Example: “I'm a bit slow on the uptake before my morning coffee.”

Origin: "Uptake" in the sense of understanding comes from Scots English, recorded from the early 19th century.

Equivalents in other languages

More English idioms

Explore another collection: False Friends

Words that look familiar in another language but mean something else entirely.

  • Realizar Actually means 'to carry out' or 'to achieve'. For realize (become aware), say darse cuen…
  • Sensible Actually means 'sensitive' or 'perceptible'. For sensible (levelheaded), say sensato.
  • Familiar Actually means 'family member' or 'relating to the family'. Un ambiente familiar = a fami…

Browse all false friends →

Keep exploring

Explore all idioms →