Quick-footed

Able to move rapidly, lightly, and with good control.

Reach for it when praising physical agility in sport, dance, or a fast response

The quick-footed defender reached the ball before it crossed the line.

• playful

  spry

  lively movement is surprising for the person's age

  not when Spry can sound patronizing when age is irrelevant.

• warm

  light-footed

  graceful quiet steps matter most

  not when Light-footed can be graceful without being especially quick.

• warm

  nimble

  light controlled movement is the main strength

  not when Nimble can describe hands or thinking, not only feet.

• professional

  agile

  rapid changes of direction are demonstrated

  not when Agile is broader and may refer to mental or organizational flexibility.

• formal

  swift

  speed alone is the supported claim

  not when Swift does not convey agility or sure footing.

• literary

  fleet-footed

  speed on foot deserves elevated praise

  not when Fleet-footed emphasizes pace more than balance.

• slow-footed
• clumsy
• heavy-footed

• quick-footed player

  The quick-footed player recovered after the awkward bounce.

• quick-footed response

  A quick-footed response kept the dancer clear of the falling prop.

• quick-footed movement

  Quick-footed movement carried the runner through the crowded bend.