Example: Das plötzliche Thema erwischte ihn auf dem falschen Fuß während der Debatte.
Definition
"Auf dem falschen Fuß erwischen" is an idiomatic expression meaning to catch someone unprepared or off guard, often leading to surprise or discomfort. For example, it describes situations where a sudden topic or event surprises a person during a discussion.
Translations
catch someone off guard
pillar desprevenido
iemand op het verkeerde been zetten
agafar desprevingut
prendre au dépourvu
Etymology
The phrase "auf dem falschen Fuß erwischen" literally translates to "catch on the wrong foot." It originates from military or dance contexts where starting with the wrong foot could lead to mistakes or imbalance. Did you know? This expression humorously conveys the idea of being caught in a moment of unpreparedness.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Auf dem falschen Fuß erwischen" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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catch someone off guard