Catch somebody napping

usgb
verb

To surprise someone by doing something when they are not ready or expecting it.

The team caught their opponents napping and scored three goals in the first half.
Visual representation of "catch somebody napping" - To surprise someone by doing something when they are not ready or expecting it.

Often appears as...

  • catch someone napping
  • caught off guard

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "catch somebody napping"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Action

Used when an action is done suddenly and the other person isn't prepared for it.

Illustration for Unexpected Action
The pop quiz caught the students napping, and none had studied.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Use

It's a figurative phrase and doesn't mean someone is actually sleeping.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Our competitors caught us napping with their new marketing campaign.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Strategy Reveal

Can imply a smart or sneaky move by one party to gain an advantage.

Illustration for Strategy Reveal
He caught us napping by selling the stock before the market crashed.
Visual representation of the word "Catch somebody napping"

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