keep one\'s wits about one

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase keep one\'s wits about one, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression keep one\'s wits about one used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "keep one\'s wits about one"

Meaning

The phrase ‘Keep one’s wits about one’ is an English idiom that means to stay alert and be aware of one’s surroundings. It is often used to advise someone to remain calm, rational, and present in a particular situation. People who are ‘keeping their wits about them’ are likely to think more clearly and make better decisions.

Etymology

The phrase ‘keep one’s wits about one’ is an English idiom that dates back to the 16th century. The word ‘wit’ in this phrase refers to a person’s mental faculties, or ability to think and reason. A person who ‘keeps his wits about him’ is one who is able to think clearly and make intelligent decisions even in difficult or stressful situations.

Usage

This phrase is often used to advise someone to stay calm, collected, and alert in difficult or stressful situations. It is also commonly used to emphasize the importance of staying aware of one’s surroundings and being able to respond quickly and intelligently to potential threats. Similarly, it can be used as a reminder to remain rational and make wise decisions even when emotions are high.

Example Sentences

• “When I’m in public, I always keep my wits about me. You never know when something might happen.”
• “In a tense negotiation, it’s important to keep your wits about you and think clearly before speaking.”
• “If you want to stay safe, you need to keep your wits about you at all times.”

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.