Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

catch-someone-off-guard

Phrase
/kætʃ sʌmwʌn ɔf ɡɑrd/
Definition
To surprise someone by doing something unexpected or when they are not fully prepared.
Examples
  • The sudden announcement of the meeting caught everyone off guard.
  • Her unexpected arrival at the party really caught me off guard.
  • The storm caught the hikers off guard as they weren’t prepared for bad weather.
Meaning
The phrase refers to the situation when a person is not ready for an event or action, leading to surprise or shock.
Synonyms
  • Surprise
  • Stun
  • Take by surprise
  • Startle