小回りが利く

• Reading: こまわりがきく
• Romaji: komawari ga kiku
• Kanji breakdown: 小 (shō/ko) — small; 回 (kai/mawari) — turn, rotation; 利 (ri/ki) — benefit, effective
• Pronunciation: /ko.ma.wa.ɾi.ɡa.kʲi.kɯ/

Meaning

Agile; manoeuvrable; flexible; nimble. Describes the ability to respond quickly and efficiently in tight or rapidly changing situations.

Literally 'can turn in small circles,' this expression is used both literally (of vehicles navigating tight spaces) and figuratively (of people, organisations, or systems). In business contexts, it describes a company or person that can adapt swiftly to change — commonly contrasted with large, slow-moving entities.

Examples

1. 小さな会社は意思決定が速く、小回りが利くのが強みだ。 Small companies have the advantage of fast decision-making and the flexibility to adapt quickly.
2. このスクーターは路地でも小回りが利いて、街中の移動に最適だ。 This scooter is nimble enough for narrow alleys, making it perfect for getting around the city.
3. 一人で動けるフリーランサーは小回りが利く分、急な依頼にも対応できる。 Freelancers who can operate independently have the agility to take on last-minute requests.

Usage Guide

Context: business, transport, strategy, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 小回り (komawari, small turn/circle) and 利く (kiku, to be effective/to work well). Originally a driving and navigation term describing a vehicle's turning radius, it expanded metaphorically into business and everyday usage.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: General