1.
maneuverability; ability to turn in tight spaces
The ability of a vehicle to turn within a small radius. Figuratively, the ability of a person or organization to respond quickly and flexibly.
軽自動車は小回りがきく。
Light cars are easy to maneuver.
この自転車は小回りがきいて便利だ。
This bicycle is easy to handle and convenient.
小さな会社は小回りがきくので、変化に素早く対応できる。
A small company can be nimble, so it can respond quickly to change.
Almost always used in the set phrase 小回りがきく — to be able to turn in a tight space, or figuratively to respond nimbly and flexibly.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 小回りがきく: to be maneuverable; to be nimble
- 小回りのきく車: an easy-to-handle car
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 機動力: mobility — a formal term for the capacity to move and act quickly
- 小回り contrasts with a large vehicle or organization that is slow and hard to turn