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Definitions

flat-footed

ADJECTIVE
off-guard
Synonyms
WEAK
asleep asleep on the job daydreaming inattentive napping spaced out unalert unready unsuspecting unvigilant unwatchful zoned out
ADVERB
off-guard
Synonyms
WEAK
asleep asleep at the switch derelict napping negligent not on the job unalert unguarded unprepared unready unwatchful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But her flat-footed handling of the huge fires that tore through the city in January 2025 left her in trouble.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

It stands to reason the Fed can’t afford to be caught flat-footed on inflation again.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

Still, it was caught flat-footed by the arrival of high-functioning chatbots in the form of ChatGPT in late 2022.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

Wood dictated the tempo across 12 rounds against a frustrated, flat-footed Warrington.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

He was short and old, with a white mustache and walked flat-footed with a cane.

From "A Farewell To Arms" by Ernest Hemingway

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