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Definitions

off-guard

ADJECTIVE
unprepared
Synonyms
WEAK
asleep asleep on the job daydreaming flat-footed inattentive napping spaced out unalert unready unsuspecting unvigilant unwatchful zoned out
ADVERB
when not paying attention
Synonyms
WEAK
asleep asleep at the switch derelict flat-footed 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.

I loved when a dish caught me off guard.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

"We were taken off guard that it seemed to be working on time scales similar to that of silicon photodetectors."

From Science Daily • Mar. 4, 2026

He said residents were "completely caught off guard" on Sunday morning as news of El Mencho's capture, and the following unrest, broke.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

That he has moved so forcefully against the states has caught some off guard.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 21, 2026

Her question caught me off guard, even though it shouldn’t have.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam