Translation guide
Describes performing an action in a quick, nimble, and coordinated way. Japanese uses adverbs, adverbial phrases, or verbs that inherently convey agile movement.
To describe physical movement that is swift, light, and nimble.
Adverbial form of 素早い (swift, nimble). The most common and versatile way to say 'with agility' for physical actions.
猫が素早く動いた。
The cat moved with agility.
彼は素早く階段を駆け上がった。
He ran up the stairs with agility.
To describe mental agility, such as quick thinking or clever responses.
Adverbial form of 機敏 (quick-witted, sharp). Used for mental alertness and swift reactions.
彼は機敏に質問に答えた。
He answered the question with agility.
Do not translate 'with agility' as 「敏捷性を持って」 or similar noun-based phrases. Japanese naturally uses adverbs or adverbial phrases instead.
Adverbial form of 敏捷 (agile, nimble). Slightly more formal or literary than 素早く, often used in written descriptions.
選手は敏捷にコートを走り回った。
The player ran around the court with agility.
Adverbial form of 身軽 (light-footed, nimble). Emphasizes lightness and ease of movement, often used for people or animals.
彼女は身軽に跳び箱を跳んだ。
She vaulted the box with agility.
Literally 'with light, brisk movements'. A natural phrase to describe agile motion, often used in sports or dance contexts.
ダンサーは軽快な動きでステージを魅了した。
The dancer captivated the stage with agility.
Adverbial form of すばしこい (nimble, quick, especially in small movements). Colloquial and often used for small animals or children.
リスがすばしこく木に登った。
The squirrel climbed the tree with agility.
Literally 'with quick mental rotation'. A common phrase meaning 'thinking quickly on one's feet'.
彼女は頭の回転が速く、どんな状況にも対応できる。
She can handle any situation with agility.
Adverbial phrase meaning 'flexibly adapting to circumstances'. Emphasizes resourceful agility in changing situations.
彼は臨機応変に問題を解決した。
He solved the problem with agility.