Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

to-be-caught-short

idiomatic expression

/tə biː kɔːt ʃɔːt/

Definition

To be caught short means to be caught in an unexpected or uncomfortable situation, especially when one is unprepared or lacking something necessary.

Examples

She was caught short during the long road trip and had to find a rest stop quickly.
I didn’t anticipate the long meeting, and I was caught short without lunch.
He was caught short when the electricity went out during his presentation.

Meaning

This phrase often refers to being in a dilemma or difficulty due to a lack of foresight or planning. It is commonly used in contexts like needing to find a restroom urgently when there is none available.