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Translation

off-guard

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Word: Off-Guard

Part of Speech: Adjective

Meaning: When someone is "off-guard," it means they are not prepared or not paying attention. This could be because they were surprised or distracted, making them vulnerable to something unexpected.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "off-guard" to describe a moment when someone is caught by surprise or is not ready for something that happens. It often refers to situations where a person is taken aback or unprepared for an event or comment.

Examples:
  1. Simple Example: "The unexpected question from the teacher caught me off-guard."
  2. Advanced Example: "During the meeting, he was off-guard when his colleague asked him to present his project unexpectedly."
Word Variants:
  • Off-guarded (adjective) - This is a less common variant but can sometimes be used to describe someone who is in a state of being off-guard.
  • Off-guardness (noun) - Also not commonly used, but it could refer to the state of being off-guard.
Different Meanings:
  • The primary meaning relates to being unprepared or surprised.
  • In some contexts, it can also imply a lack of vigilance, meaning someone is not being careful or watchful.
Synonyms:
  • Unprepared
  • Surprised
  • Caught off-balance
  • Taken aback
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
  • Caught off-guard: This is a phrase similar in meaning, which means to be surprised or unprepared for something unexpected.

    • Example: "The sudden change in plans caught everyone off-guard."
  • Let one's guard down: This means to stop being careful or vigilant, which can lead to being caught off-guard.

    • Example: "She let her guard down and didn’t notice the potential danger."
Summary:

The word "off-guard" describes a state of not being prepared or vigilant, often leading to surprise or vulnerability.

Adjective
  1. not prepared or vigilant
    • the blow caught him napping
    • caught in an off-guard moment
    • found him off his guard

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