Meaning and Usage
The adjective すばしこい describes someone or something that is quick, nimble, or smart in movement or thought. It often implies agility both physically and mentally, such as quick reflexes or cleverness.
Common Contexts
You will find すばしこい used to describe animals, people, or even responses that are fast and skillful. For example, athletes, children learning quickly, or witty replies in conversation.
Collocations and Patterns
- すばしこい動き (nimble movement): used to describe physical agility.
- すばしこい返答 (quick reply): used when someone responds cleverly and promptly.
- すばしこい子供 (smart child): describes a child who learns or reacts quickly.
Register and Nuance
This word is neutral to slightly informal and common in spoken and written Japanese. It conveys admiration for speed and cleverness without being overly formal.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse すばしこい with 速い (はやい), which means simply "fast." すばしこい emphasizes agility and cleverness, not just speed. Use すばしこい when you want to highlight skillful quickness rather than just rapidity.