agility - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
agility Word Meanings
- Physical nimbleness: ability to move quickly and easily
- Mental quickness: ability to think and react swiftly
- Flexibility in adapting to new tasks or changing circumstances
agility Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
agility Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈdʒɪlɪti/
US
/əˈdʒɪlɪti/
agility Word Etymology
Root decomposition: the stem is agil- and the noun-forming suffix is -ity. Historical origin: from Latin agilis 'nimble', via Old French/agilité into English. Memory image: imagine a gymnast weaving through cones with swift, nimble movements to recall agility.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Agility as a noun covers physical nimbleness and a quick, flexible mind, plus the ability to adapt to new tasks or changing circumstances. In everyday English, physical agility is used for athletes—dancers, gymnasts, runners who move with control and balance. Mental agility describes fast thinking, rapid problem solving, and the capacity to switch strategies when faced with new information. Agility also conveys adaptive flexibility in unfamiliar tasks or unexpected changes, not stubbornness or hesitation. Etymology: from Latin agilis, through Old French/agilité, entering English as agility. Memory cue: picture a gymnast weaving between cones with swift, nimble moves.
Usage Reminders
- - Use agility for both body and mind.
- - Don’t confuse agility with agile as an adjective.
- - Note common phrases: agility training, mental agility, physical agility.
- - Distinguish agility from speed alone; they’re related but not the same.
- - Watch collocations like demonstrate agility or require agility during a task.
Common Misconceptions
- Agility is only about fast physical movement.
- Agility means always being flexible to change with no planning.
- Agility equals the software development method Agile.
- Mental agility requires rare talent; you can't improve it.
- If you lack agility, you can't perform well in complex tasks.
Thinking Differences
Explain agility to an English speaker by noting that it blends body control with fast thinking; learners often default to sports imagery or assume agility is all about speed, not decision-making.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both physical drills and quick-thinking tasks.
- Learn common collocations: agility course, mental agility, physical agility.
- Compare agility with speed to understand the nuance.
- Use memory cues that link body movement and decision-making.
- Read or listen to sports commentary to hear natural usage.
- Record yourself describing a task that requires quick adaptation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'agility'?
A.The ability to move quickly and easily
B.A type of food preparation
C.A method of teaching
D.A form of meditation
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'agility'.
A.The agility of the car was impressive during the race.
B.He showed great agility by cooking the meal in record time.
C.Her agility was evident as she danced gracefully across the stage.
D.I felt a sudden agility when I heard the news.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'agility'?
A.Strength
B.Speed
C.Wisdom
D.Clumsiness
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'agility'?
A.Sluggishness
B.Laziness
C.Flexibility
D.Grace
Step 5: Mastery
Can you provide a real-life context where agility might be important?
A.An athlete needs to engage in various exercises for physical fitness.
B.A dancer must possess agility to perform complex movements.
C.A teacher uses agility to modify lesson plans.
D.An engineer designs a building for strength and durability.
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