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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

The cinematography, score and editing all stay flat-footed in deference to its lead.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Still, when ChatGPT arrived in late 2022, Amazon was caught flat-footed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

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

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

But somehow, after throwing a fit in the starting gate and being left flat-footed at the bell, the colt won his race that day.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand

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