Put somebody off their stride

usgb
phrase

To cause someone to lose focus or to distract someone from their purpose or goal.

The sudden noise in the classroom put him off his stride during the presentation.
Visual representation of "put somebody off their stride" - To cause someone to lose focus or to distract someone from their purpose or goal.

Often appears as...

  • sudden noise put him off his stride
  • his rude behavior put her off her stride

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "put somebody off their stride"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Use in Context

Apply the phrase in situations where a temporary distraction has caused a problem in concentrating or continuing.

Illustration for Use in Context
The construction noise outside put me off my stride while I was studying.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Impact

The phrase may suggest frustration or annoyance because of the disruption.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
A heckler in the crowd put the comedian off his stride, visibly irritating him.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

Understand that the phrase is usually metaphorical, not referring to actual walking or running.

Illustration for Not Literal
Her sudden resignation really put the team off their stride with the project.
Visual representation of the word "Put somebody off their stride"

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