Catch somebody on the hop

phrase

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

They caught us on the hop by launching their product a week before planned.
Visual representation of "catch somebody on the hop" - to surprise someone by doing something when they are not ready

Often appears as...

  • caught me on the hop
  • caught us on the hop

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

phrase

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

They caught us on the hop by launching their product a week before planned.
Visual representation of "catch somebody on the hop" - to surprise someone by doing something when they are not ready

Often appears as...

  • caught me on the hop
  • caught us on the hop

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "catch somebody on the hop"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Readiness

The phrase emphasizes someone's lack of preparation for a situation or event.

Illustration for Readiness
When the pop quiz was given, it really caught me on the hop.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Surprise Element

Implies an element of surprise that can cause confusion or disadvantage.

Illustration for Surprise Element
The sudden inspection caught the staff on the hop.
LampPro Tip 3/3

British Origin

This phrase is primarily used in the UK, so knowing your audience helps avoid miscommunication.

Illustration for British Origin
As an American, I was caught on the hop by their British slang.
Visual representation of the word "Catch somebody on the hop"

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