OFF GUARD Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "off guard" is an English expression that is used to describe a state of being caught unprepared, unaware, or surprised by something unexpected. It refers to a situation in which someone is not mentally or physically ready for what is about to happen, making them vulnerable or defenseless.
When caught "off guard," an individual is generally caught by surprise, often due to a lack of anticipation or readiness. This can occur in various circumstances, such as during a conversation, an argument, a competition, or in one's personal or professional life. Being "off guard" means that one's guard or defenses are down, making it easier for others to take advantage or derive some benefit from the situation.
The phrase can also be applied in a broader sense, beyond individual experiences, to describe a state of unpreparedness or vulnerability in a collective or societal context. For example, a country might be caught "off guard" by sudden changes in global politics or events, leading to an unprepared response.
In summary, being caught "off guard" means being taken by surprise due to a lack of preparedness, anticipation, or readiness. It underscores a vulnerable or defenseless state, making one easier to exploit or manipulate.
Common Misspellings for OFF GUARD
- of-guard
- off-gard
- of gard
Etymology of OFF GUARD
The phrase "off guard" originated from the military terminology. The word "guard" refers to a stance or position of readiness or vigilance. The term "off guard" emerged from the idea of catching someone when they are not in their prepared or defensive state. It is believed to have first appeared in the mid-18th century. The prefix "off" in this context implies the absence or relaxation of the usual state of guard, leaving one vulnerable or unprepared. Over time, this phrase has been adopted into everyday language to describe catching someone by surprise or taking them unaware.
Idioms with the word OFF GUARD
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catch sb off guard
The idiom "catch someone off guard" means to surprise or startle someone by doing something unexpected or before they have a chance to prepare for it.
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catch off guard
The idiom "catch off guard" means to surprise or startle someone, especially by doing or saying something unexpected, before they have a chance to react or prepare themselves.
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catch/take sb off guard
The idiom "catch/take someone off guard" means to surprise or startle someone by doing something unexpected or by catching them in a vulnerable or unprepared state. It can refer to unexpected events, comments, questions, or actions that catch a person by surprise and make them feel momentarily confused or startled.
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catch sm off guard
The idiom "catch sm off guard" means to surprise or unexpectedly confront someone, often causing them to be unprepared or taken by surprise.
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catch (one) off guard
The idiom "catch (someone) off guard" means to surprise or unexpectedly encounter someone in a situation for which they are unprepared or unaware.
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catch somebody off guard
The idiom "catch somebody off guard" means to surprise or startle someone by doing or saying something unexpected, usually when they are unprepared or unaware.
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catch someone off guard
The idiom "catch someone off guard" means to surprise or startle someone by doing something when they are least expecting it or not adequately prepared for it. It refers to taking someone by surprise or catching them unaware.
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off guard
The idiom "off guard" means to catch someone by surprise or unprepared, usually in a vulnerable or defenseless position.
Similar spelling word for OFF GUARD
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