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.

Yoon's declaration triggered protests, panicked the stock market and caught key allies like the United States off-guard.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

Tom Lee, head of research at Fundstrat, explained in his ‘Macro Minute’ video update on Wednesday that this is what caught retail investors off-guard.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 16, 2026

On rare occasions, the opposition may deploy a unique defensive tactic from corners and catch the attacking side off-guard, making their preparation ineffective.

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2026

Local water managers were caught off-guard by the decision, but they said they convinced Army Corps officials to release less water than originally planned.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 31, 2025

Caught off-guard, he only had time to deflect, his parry lost in his size.

From "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas

off-guard

Example Sentences

Related Words