phrase

• Ready for any eventuality; alert.

  ‘he carries out random spot checks to keep everyone on their toes’

  More example sentences

  • ‘If you have someone like that shouting all the time then it keeps everyone focused and on their toes.’
  • ‘Nevertheless, that's what makes bowling great - you've always got to be on your toes, be ready to make changes.’
  • ‘Instead, keep on your toes, and be ready to switch to a better deal every few years.’
  • ‘There is absolutely nothing wrong with this approach, which requires the wine lover to be alert and on their toes.’
  • ‘Keep him on his toes until he's ready to take command of the group.’
  • ‘He could be uncharacteristically mean to a pompous speaker; his presence at meetings made sure everyone was on their toes.’
  • ‘Mick said there had been very strong competition for places within the panel which kept everyone on their toes.’
  • ‘The remainder of the half was fought out superbly with the ebb and flow of the contest keeping everyone on their toes.’
  • ‘If nothing else, this at least kept everyone on their toes.’
  • ‘I think it keeps you on your toes, it keeps you alert, it keeps you curious.’

  Synonyms

  alert, quick-witted, sharp, bright, quick, keen, perceptive, wide awake, responsive, agile, acute, astute

  View synonyms