Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
catch-someone-flat-footed
idiomatic expression
/kæʧ ˈsʌmˌwʌn ˈflæt ˈfʊtɪd/
Definition
To surprise someone by making them unprepared or by taking them off guard.
Examples
- The unexpected question from the reporter caught the politician flat-footed.
- The sudden change in plans caught us all flat-footed.
- When the teacher asked him to explain his homework, he was caught flat-footed.
Meaning
This phrase means to find someone unready for a situation or action, often resulting in their inability to respond effectively.
Synonyms
- surprise
- catch off guard
- take by surprise
- startle
