Be caught short

usgb
verb

Unexpectedly need to urinate or defecate immediately.

After drinking lots of water during our road trip, I was caught short and had to find a public restroom quickly.
Visual representation of "be caught short" - Unexpectedly need to urinate or defecate immediately.

Often appears as...

  • caught short in public
  • was caught short

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "be caught short"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Urgency

Expresses a sudden, urgent need related to bodily functions.

Illustration for Urgency
Long queues can be problematic if you're caught short.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal

Used mainly in informal situations among friends or family.

Illustration for Informal
Let's take a break soon; someone might get caught short.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Embarrassment

Mentioning this phrase could imply or cause embarrassment, use with discretion.

Illustration for Embarrassment
Sorry for the interruption, I was caught short just now.
Visual representation of the word "Be caught short"

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