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.

These costs have been catching employers off guard, especially with the increased use of agentic AI sucking up tokens.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

The switch catches the listener off guard, especially as Díaz slips into sad boy mode, singing about a girl he still catches himself thinking about.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

Investors were caught off guard by the yield surge, which suggests that the market had become a little complacent about inflation despite hot consumer and wholesale price readings this week.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

"I want to thank you for your hard work and your humility," the Argentine said, catching Griezmann visibly off guard.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

“Did it catch you off guard when my dad rapped about it at sixteen?”

From "On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas

off-guard

Example Sentences

Related Words