Top 74 Slang For Unexpectedly – Meaning & Usage

Ever been caught off guard by something happening out of the blue? Whether it’s a surprise party or an unexpected turn of events, we’ve all experienced moments that leave us saying, “Well, that escalated quickly!” Join us as we unravel the top slang terms for unexpectedly that will have you nodding in agreement and chuckling at how accurately they capture those unpredictable moments. Stay ahead of the curve and add these gems to your linguistic arsenal!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Out of the blue

This phrase is used to describe something that happens suddenly and unexpectedly, often without any prior indication or preparation.

For example, “I received a job offer out of the blue.”
A person might say, “He called me out of the blue after years of no contact.”
Someone might mention, “The accident happened out of the blue, I never saw it coming.”

2. All of a sudden

This phrase is used to describe something that happens quickly and unexpectedly, often without any prior indication or preparation.

For instance, “All of a sudden, it started raining heavily.”
A person might say, “He left the party all of a sudden without saying goodbye.”
Someone might mention, “All of a sudden, the car stopped working in the middle of the highway.”

3. Like a bolt from the blue

This phrase is used to describe something that happens completely unexpectedly, catching someone by surprise.

For example, “The news of his promotion came like a bolt from the blue.”
A person might say, “The breakup came like a bolt from the blue, I never saw it coming.”
Someone might mention, “The sudden illness hit her like a bolt from the blue, she had no symptoms before.”

4. Out of nowhere

This phrase is used to describe something that happens suddenly and unexpectedly, seemingly coming from a place or situation where it was not anticipated.

For instance, “He appeared out of nowhere and scared me.”
A person might say, “The car came out of nowhere and hit me.”
Someone might mention, “The idea for the new product came out of nowhere during a brainstorming session.”

5. Catch someone off guard

This phrase is used to describe the act of surprising or startling someone by doing something unexpected or catching them unprepared.

For example, “His question caught me off guard, I wasn’t expecting it.”
A person might say, “The sudden noise caught her off guard and made her jump.”
Someone might mention, “The unexpected compliment caught him off guard and made him blush.”

6. Come out of left field

– For example, “The news of their breakup came out of left field.”

In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “The candidate’s controversial statement really came out of left field.”
A friend might share, “I was caught off guard when my boss gave me a promotion. It totally came out of left field.”

7. Take someone by surprise

– For instance, “The sudden announcement took everyone by surprise.”

In a conversation about birthdays, someone might say, “I’m planning a surprise party to take my friend by surprise.”
A person might share, “I took my partner by surprise by proposing during a romantic dinner.”

8. Blindside

– For example, “The opposing team’s strategy completely blindsided us.”

In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “My partner blindside me with the news that they wanted to break up.”
A person might share, “I was blindside by the sudden layoff announcement at work.”

9. Knock for six

– For instance, “The unexpected loss of a loved one can knock you for six.”

In a conversation about sports, someone might say, “The underdog team’s victory knocked their opponents for six.”
A person might share, “Receiving a failing grade on the exam really knocked me for six.”

10. Hit like a ton of bricks

– For example, “The news of the accident hit me like a ton of bricks.”

In a discussion about emotions, someone might say, “Grief can hit you like a ton of bricks.”
A person might share, “The realization that I had been betrayed hit me like a ton of bricks.”

11. Out of left field

This phrase is often used to describe something that comes as a surprise or is completely unexpected. It originated from baseball, where a ball hit out of left field would catch the outfielders off guard.

For example, “His sudden resignation came out of left field and shocked everyone.”
In a conversation about a plot twist in a movie, someone might say, “The twist at the end came out of left field and blew my mind.”
A person discussing a surprise party might say, “We threw her a party out of left field and she was completely surprised.”

12. Catch unawares

This phrase means to catch someone off guard or to surprise them unexpectedly. It implies that the person was not prepared for the situation or event.

For instance, “The loud noise caught me unawares and made me jump.”
In a discussion about a prank, someone might say, “We hid behind the door and caught him unawares when he walked in.”
A person describing a surprise visit might say, “I showed up at her house unannounced and caught her unawares.”

13. Come out of the woodwork

This phrase means to suddenly or unexpectedly appear or emerge, often in large numbers or from unexpected places. It is often used to describe people who appear or make themselves known after a long period of time.

For example, “After winning the lottery, distant relatives came out of the woodwork asking for money.”
In a conversation about a celebrity scandal, someone might say, “Once the news broke, tabloid reporters came out of the woodwork to get the story.”
A person discussing a sudden increase in support might say, “After the announcement, volunteers came out of the woodwork to help with the campaign.”

14. Out of thin air

This phrase means to appear or happen suddenly and unexpectedly, as if coming from nowhere. It is often used to describe something that seems to have no logical explanation or origin.

For instance, “He came up with the idea out of thin air and surprised everyone.”
In a discussion about a rumor, someone might say, “The rumor seemed to come out of thin air and spread like wildfire.”
A person describing a sudden change in plans might say, “He canceled the meeting out of thin air, leaving us all confused.”

15. Pop up out of nowhere

This phrase means to appear or happen suddenly, often without any warning or prior indication. It implies that the person or thing appeared unexpectedly and seemingly out of nowhere.

For example, “The deer popped up out of nowhere and startled the driver.”
In a conversation about a surprise visit, someone might say, “He popped up out of nowhere and surprised us all.”
A person describing a sudden memory might say, “The thought of her popped up out of nowhere and brought back all the emotions.”

16. Out of the clear blue sky

This phrase is used to describe something that happens without any warning or indication. It emphasizes the element of surprise.

For example, “He came out of the clear blue sky and proposed to her.”
A person might say, “I didn’t see it coming. It hit me out of the clear blue sky.”
Another example could be, “The news of his promotion came out of the clear blue sky.”

17. Take someone aback

This phrase means to surprise or shock someone with unexpected behavior or news. It often implies catching someone off guard.

For instance, “Her sudden outburst took everyone aback.”
A person might say, “His decision to quit his job took me aback.”
Another example could be, “The unexpected turn of events took the whole team aback.”

18. Throw a curveball

This phrase comes from baseball and refers to a pitch that is difficult to hit because it deviates from a straight path. In a figurative sense, it means to surprise or challenge someone with something unexpected.

For example, “His sudden resignation threw a curveball at the company.”
A person might say, “The professor threw a curveball by changing the exam format.”
Another example could be, “The unexpected rainstorm threw a curveball into our outdoor plans.”

19. Catch someone on the hop

This phrase means to catch someone off guard or unprepared. It implies surprising someone when they are not expecting it.

For instance, “His question caught me on the hop and I didn’t know how to respond.”
A person might say, “The sudden arrival of guests caught us on the hop.”
Another example could be, “The unexpected deadline caught the team on the hop.”

20. Knock someone sideways

This phrase means to shock or surprise someone to the point of disorientation or confusion. It conveys the idea of being caught off balance.

For example, “The news of her promotion knocked her sideways.”
A person might say, “The unexpected turn of events knocked him sideways.”
Another example could be, “The sudden appearance of her ex-boyfriend knocked her sideways.”

21. Throw someone for a loop

This phrase is used when something unexpected happens that catches someone off guard or confuses them.

For example, “The sudden announcement of her resignation threw everyone for a loop.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “The underdog team’s victory threw the crowd for a loop.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a plot twist in a movie, saying, “The twist ending really threw me for a loop.”

22. Catch someone flat-footed

This expression means to surprise or catch someone off guard, often when they are not prepared or expecting something to happen.

For instance, “The difficult question caught the student flat-footed during the exam.”
In a business context, someone might say, “The sudden market downturn caught the company’s executives flat-footed.”
A person might use this phrase to describe being caught off guard by a sudden rainstorm, saying, “I was caught flat-footed without an umbrella.”

23. Come as a shock

This phrase is used to describe something that is unexpected and surprising, often causing shock or astonishment.

For example, “The news of her sudden death came as a shock to everyone.”
In a personal context, someone might say, “His sudden decision to quit his job came as a shock to his family.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a surprising plot twist in a book, saying, “The revelation in the final chapter came as a shock.”

24. Catch someone napping

This phrase means to catch someone off guard or surprise them while they are not paying attention or are unprepared.

For instance, “The thief caught the security guard napping and managed to steal the valuable artwork.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “The opposing team scored a goal while our defenders were caught napping.”
A person might use this phrase to describe surprising someone with a prank, saying, “I caught my friend napping by hiding in their closet and jumping out.”

25. Take someone off guard

This expression means to surprise or startle someone by doing something unexpected or catching them unprepared.

For example, “The sudden loud noise took me off guard and made me jump.”
In a social context, someone might say, “Her direct question took him off guard and he didn’t know how to respond.”
A person might use this phrase to describe surprising someone with a gift, saying, “I took my partner off guard with a surprise anniversary present.”

26. Take someone off their guard

To catch someone off guard or unexpectedly. This phrase is often used to describe surprising someone with unexpected news, actions, or events.

For example, “The sudden question took him off his guard and he didn’t know how to respond.”
In a conversation about a surprise party, someone might say, “We need to make sure we take her off her guard so the surprise isn’t ruined.”
A sports commentator might say, “The unexpected move by the opposing team took the defense off their guard and led to a goal.”

27. Throw someone off their game

To unexpectedly disrupt someone’s concentration, rhythm, or performance. This phrase is often used in sports or competitive situations but can be applied to other scenarios as well.

For instance, “The loud noise from the crowd threw him off his game and he missed the shot.”
In a discussion about job interviews, someone might say, “Nerves can throw you off your game, so it’s important to practice and prepare.”
A coach might advise a player, “Don’t let the opponent’s trash talk throw you off your game. Stay focused and play your best.”

28. Catch someone off their guard

To unexpectedly surprise someone or catch them unprepared. This phrase implies that the person was not expecting the situation or event that occurred.

For example, “The unexpected compliment caught her off her guard and she blushed.”
In a conversation about a prank, someone might say, “We need to find a way to catch him off his guard and make him jump.”
A journalist might write, “The reporter’s tough question caught the politician off his guard and he stumbled over his response.”

29. Hit someone out of the blue

To surprise or shock someone with unexpected news or events. This phrase suggests that the person was not prepared or anticipating what happened.

For instance, “The sudden breakup hit him out of the blue and he was devastated.”
In a discussion about accidents, someone might say, “The car came out of nowhere and hit me out of the blue.”
A friend might say, “I didn’t see it coming. The news completely hit me out of the blue.”

30. Come as a bolt out of the blue

Similar to “hit someone out of the blue,” this phrase describes something that surprises or shocks someone unexpectedly. The comparison to a bolt of lightning emphasizes the suddenness and unexpectedness of the situation.

For example, “The job offer came as a bolt out of the blue. I wasn’t even actively looking for a new opportunity.”
In a conversation about winning the lottery, someone might say, “Winning the jackpot would definitely come as a bolt out of the blue.”
A character in a book might experience a sudden plot twist that comes as a bolt out of the blue, surprising both the character and the reader.

31. Without warning

This phrase is used to describe something that happens abruptly or without any prior indication or notice.

For example, “He showed up at my house without warning.”
In a conversation about a surprise party, someone might say, “We wanted to catch her without warning.”
A news headline might read, “The storm hit the city without warning, causing widespread damage.”

32. In the blink of an eye

This expression signifies that something happens extremely fast, as if it occurred within the time it takes to blink.

For instance, “The car disappeared in the blink of an eye.”
In a discussion about a sports event, someone might say, “He scored a goal in the blink of an eye.”
A person describing a close call might say, “I narrowly avoided an accident. It happened in the blink of an eye.”

33. In a heartbeat

This phrase conveys that something happens very quickly, without any delay or second thought.

For example, “I would do it again in a heartbeat.”
In a conversation about making a decision, someone might say, “If the opportunity arises, I’ll take it in a heartbeat.”
A person describing their reaction to a shocking event might say, “My heart stopped in a heartbeat.”

34. In the twinkling of an eye

This expression suggests that something happens very quickly, almost as fast as the time it takes for an eye to twinkle.

For instance, “She finished the race in the twinkling of an eye.”
In a discussion about a magic trick, someone might say, “The magician made the object disappear in the twinkling of an eye.”
A person describing a sudden change might say, “Everything can change in the twinkling of an eye.”

35. In a split second

This phrase indicates that something happens in an extremely short amount of time, almost instantaneously.

For example, “He made a decision in a split second.”
In a conversation about a reflex action, someone might say, “I dodged the ball in a split second.”
A person describing a near miss might say, “The accident happened in a split second, but we managed to avoid it.”

36. In a flash

This phrase is used to describe something that happens very quickly or suddenly, without any warning or preparation.

For example, “He finished his work in a flash and left the office.”
A person might say, “I found my keys in a flash, just when I was about to give up looking.”
Another situation where this phrase can be used is, “The storm came in a flash and flooded the streets.”

37. In no time

This phrase is used to indicate that something happens very quickly or without any delay.

For instance, “She completed the task in no time and moved on to the next one.”
A person might say, “I’ll be there in no time, just finishing up a few things.”
Another situation where this phrase can be used is, “The pizza was delivered in no time, it was still hot.”

38. In the nick of time

This phrase is used to describe something that happens or someone arrives at the last possible moment, just before it’s too late.

For example, “He arrived in the nick of time to catch the train.”
A person might say, “I finished the project in the nick of time, right before the deadline.”
Another situation where this phrase can be used is, “The doctor arrived in the nick of time to save the patient’s life.”

39. At the drop of a hat

This phrase is used to describe something that happens immediately or without any delay or hesitation.

For instance, “He’s always ready to help, he’ll come running at the drop of a hat.”
A person might say, “I would go on a trip at the drop of a hat if I had the chance.”
Another situation where this phrase can be used is, “She agreed to babysit her niece at the drop of a hat.”

40. On the spur of the moment

This phrase is used to describe something that is done without any prior planning or thinking ahead.

For example, “We decided to go on a road trip on the spur of the moment.”
A person might say, “I bought this dress on the spur of the moment, I couldn’t resist.”
Another situation where this phrase can be used is, “They booked a spontaneous vacation on the spur of the moment.”

41. Out of the woodwork

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that unexpectedly emerges or becomes visible, often after being hidden or unnoticed for a period of time.

For example, “As soon as the news broke, supporters of the politician came out of the woodwork to show their support.”
A journalist might write, “After the team’s victory, fans came out of the woodwork to celebrate in the streets.”
In a discussion about a rare species, someone might say, “The endangered bird species seemed to come out of the woodwork after the forest fire.”

42. Out of the shadows

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that suddenly becomes visible or known after being hidden or unnoticed.

For instance, “The talented musician finally stepped out of the shadows and released her debut album.”
A detective might say, “The suspect has been operating in the city for years, but now we finally have evidence to bring him out of the shadows.”
In a discussion about a historical figure, someone might comment, “Her contributions to science were largely unknown until recently when her work finally came out of the shadows.”

43. Out of the darkness

This phrase is used to describe a situation or event that unexpectedly improves or becomes better after a period of uncertainty or difficulty.

For example, “Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, a solution appeared out of the darkness.”
A person discussing their personal journey might say, “I was stuck in a dark place for years, but therapy helped me find a way out of the darkness.”
In a discussion about a struggling business, someone might say, “The company was on the verge of bankruptcy, but a new investor brought them out of the darkness.”

44. Out of the mist

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that suddenly becomes clear or understandable after being uncertain or unclear.

For instance, “The solution to the problem emerged out of the mist, and everything became clear.”
A person discussing a confusing situation might say, “I was lost in a sea of information, but then a simple explanation came out of the mist.”
In a discussion about a scientific discovery, someone might comment, “The researchers worked tirelessly for years, and finally, the truth came out of the mist.”

45. Out of the fog

This phrase is used to describe a situation or event that suddenly becomes clear or understandable after being confusing or unclear.

For example, “The answer to the riddle appeared out of the fog, and everyone understood.”
A person discussing a difficult decision might say, “I was unsure about what to do, but then a moment of clarity came out of the fog.”
In a discussion about a complex problem, someone might comment, “After hours of brainstorming, a brilliant idea came out of the fog.”

46. Out of the haze

This phrase is used to describe something that happens without warning or expectation. It implies that the event or situation came out of nowhere, like emerging from a fog or haze.

For example, “He appeared out of the haze and startled everyone.”
In a story, a character might say, “Out of the haze, a figure emerged, causing panic among the crowd.”
A person describing a surprising turn of events might say, “Everything was going smoothly, but then, out of the haze, disaster struck.”

47. Out of the abyss

This phrase suggests that something or someone has come out of a deep, dark, or challenging place unexpectedly. It conveys a sense of surprise and the overcoming of adversity.

For instance, “She managed to climb out of the abyss and turn her life around.”
In a metaphorical sense, a person might say, “Out of the abyss of despair, a glimmer of hope appeared.”
A writer might describe a character’s sudden rise to success as, “He emerged out of the abyss of poverty and became a millionaire.”

48. Out of the void

This phrase indicates that something has appeared or happened without any prior existence or indication. It suggests that the event or object came from a void or emptiness, without any known origin.

For example, “Out of the void, a new technology emerged.”
In a philosophical discussion, one might say, “Creativity often arises out of the void.”
A person describing a sudden inspiration might say, “The idea came to me out of the void, as if from nowhere.”

49. Out of the black

This phrase suggests that something has appeared suddenly and unexpectedly, often with a sense of foreboding or danger. It implies that the event or object emerged from darkness or a state of unknown.

For instance, “Out of the black, a shadowy figure approached.”
In a suspenseful story, a writer might describe a mysterious entity as, “Out of the blackness, a pair of glowing eyes appeared.”
A person recounting a frightening experience might say, “Out of the black, a monster emerged, sending chills down my spine.”

50. Out of the unknown

This phrase conveys the idea that something has appeared or happened unexpectedly, coming from a place or state of unknown or unfamiliarity. It implies that the event or object emerged from a realm beyond understanding or prediction.

For example, “Out of the unknown, a new species was discovered.”
In a science fiction story, a character might say, “Out of the unknown, a spaceship materialized before our eyes.”
A person describing a surprising breakthrough might say, “The solution to the problem came out of the unknown, defying all expectations.”

51. Out of the wilderness

This phrase is used to describe something that happens unexpectedly or without warning. It implies that the event or situation is surprising and unexpected, as if it came out of nowhere.

For example, “He came out of the wilderness and joined the conversation, surprising everyone.”
In a story, a character might say, “Out of the wilderness, a mysterious figure appeared.”
Someone might use this phrase to describe a sudden change in circumstances, saying, “My life took a turn out of the wilderness when I won the lottery.”

52. Out of the desert

This phrase is used to describe something that happens unexpectedly or without warning, as if it appeared out of the desert. It conveys a sense of surprise and suddenness.

For instance, “He came out of the desert and started a new business, surprising everyone.”
In a conversation about travel, someone might share, “Out of the desert, an oasis appeared, providing much-needed relief.”
This phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden change or occurrence, such as, “Out of the desert of loneliness, I found a true friend.”

53. Out of the jungle

This phrase is used to describe something that happens unexpectedly or without warning, as if it emerged from the jungle. It conveys a sense of surprise and suddenness.

For example, “She came out of the jungle and became a successful author, surprising everyone.”
In a discussion about discoveries, someone might say, “Out of the jungle, a new species was found.”
This phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden and surprising event, like, “Out of the jungle of confusion, clarity emerged.”

54. Out of the forest

This phrase is used to describe something that happens unexpectedly or without warning, as if it came out of the forest. It conveys a sense of surprise and suddenness.

For instance, “He came out of the forest and saved the day, surprising everyone.”
In a story, a character might say, “Out of the forest, a mythical creature appeared.”
This phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden change or occurrence, such as, “Out of the forest of doubt, a solution emerged.”

55. Out of the blue moon

This phrase is used to describe something that happens very unexpectedly or without any warning, as if it appeared out of a blue moon. It conveys a sense of extreme surprise and suddenness.

For example, “She showed up out of the blue moon and won the competition, surprising everyone.”
In a conversation about rare occurrences, someone might say, “Out of the blue moon, a shooting star streaked across the sky.”
This phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe a highly unexpected and surprising event, like, “Out of the blue moon, I received a job offer I never expected.”

56. Out of the twilight zone

This phrase is used to describe something that happens in a way that is strange or unexpected, similar to the unpredictable events that occur in the television show “The Twilight Zone”.

For example, “I was waiting for the bus and out of the twilight zone, a unicorn appeared.”
A person might say, “I never thought I would see my ex at the party, but there they were, out of the twilight zone.”
Someone might describe a strange coincidence by saying, “It was like something out of the twilight zone.”

57. Out of the matrix

This phrase is used to describe something that happens in a way that is surprising or unforeseen, similar to the unpredictable events that occur in the movie “The Matrix”.

For instance, “I was walking down the street when out of the matrix, a car appeared out of nowhere.”
A person might say, “I never expected to win the lottery, but then I got a call out of the matrix.”
Someone might describe a sudden change in circumstances by saying, “It felt like my whole life was out of the matrix.”

58. Catch you off guard

This phrase is used to describe something that happens unexpectedly and takes someone by surprise or shocks them.

For example, “The jump scare in the horror movie really caught me off guard.”
A person might say, “His sudden proposal caught me off guard, I had no idea he was going to ask.”
Someone might describe a surprising comment by saying, “Her blunt honesty really caught me off guard.”

59. Curveball

This term is used to describe something that happens unexpectedly or in a way that is surprising, similar to a pitch in baseball that is difficult to hit because it curves.

For instance, “The sudden rainstorm threw us a curveball during our picnic.”
A person might say, “I thought I had everything planned out, but then life threw me a curveball.”
Someone might describe a sudden change in plans by saying, “The cancellation of the flight really threw us a curveball.”

60. Shockingly

This adverb is used to describe something that happens in a way that is shocking or unexpected.

For example, “The ending of the movie was shockingly unpredictable.”
A person might say, “She handled the difficult situation shockingly well.”
Someone might describe a surprising turn of events by saying, “The results of the election were shockingly different from what was predicted.”

61. Abruptly

This word describes something that happens suddenly and unexpectedly, without warning or preparation.

For example, “He abruptly left the room without saying goodbye.”
A person might say, “The car came to a stop abruptly, causing everyone to jolt forward.”
In a discussion about a plot twist in a movie, someone might comment, “The ending was so abrupt, it left me with more questions than answers.”

62. Unforeseen

This term refers to something that was not expected or predicted.

For instance, “The unforeseen rain caught everyone without an umbrella.”
A person might say, “The unforeseen circumstances forced us to change our plans.”
In a conversation about a surprise party, someone might mention, “The guest of honor had no idea about the unforeseen celebration.”

63. Took you by surprise

This phrase means that something happened unexpectedly and it startled or shocked you.

For example, “The news of their engagement took me by surprise.”
A person might say, “The sudden loud noise took me by surprise and made me jump.”
In a discussion about a plot twist in a book, someone might comment, “The revelation at the end really took me by surprise.”

64. Came out of nowhere

This expression describes something that happened unexpectedly and without any warning.

For instance, “The car came out of nowhere and almost hit me.”
A person might say, “The illness came out of nowhere and left me bedridden.”
In a conversation about a sudden success, someone might mention, “Their rise to fame seemed to come out of nowhere.”

65. Hit you like a ton of bricks

This phrase means that something happened or was revealed in a way that was extremely surprising or shocking.

For example, “The news of his betrayal hit her like a ton of bricks.”
A person might say, “The sudden loss of a loved one can hit you like a ton of bricks.”
In a discussion about a sudden realization, someone might comment, “The truth hit me like a ton of bricks, and I couldn’t believe I hadn’t seen it before.”

66. Blindside you

This phrase means to surprise or shock someone with an unexpected action or event. It often implies that the person was not prepared for the surprise.

For example, “He blindside me with his sudden resignation.”
A football commentator might say, “The quarterback was blindside by the defensive player.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a shocking plot twist in a movie, saying, “The ending of the film blindside me completely.”

67. Knock you for a loop

This expression means to surprise or astonish someone to the point of feeling disoriented or confused.

For instance, “The news of her promotion knocked me for a loop.”
A person might say, “His unexpected comment really knocked me for a loop.”
If someone receives unexpected bad news, they might say, “I was knocked for a loop when I heard about the accident.”

68. Knock for a loop

This phrase has a similar meaning to “knock you for a loop.” It refers to surprising or shocking someone to the point of feeling disoriented or confused.

For example, “His sudden resignation really knocked me for a loop.”
A person might say, “The unexpected turn of events knocked me for a loop.”
If someone receives surprising news, they might say, “That really knocked me for a loop.”

69. Drop out of the sky

This phrase means that something or someone appears or arrives suddenly and unexpectedly, as if dropping from the sky.

For instance, “The solution to the problem dropped out of the sky.”
A person might say, “I didn’t expect him to drop out of the sky like that.”
If a friend shows up unexpectedly at your house, you might say, “You just dropped out of the sky!”

70. Sneak up on

This expression means to approach someone or something quietly and unexpectedly, often without being noticed until the last moment.

For example, “The cat sneaked up on the bird.”
A person might say, “I didn’t hear him coming, he really sneaked up on me.”
If someone startles you by appearing suddenly, you might say, “You really sneaked up on me!”

71. Catch someone with their eyes closed

This phrase is used to describe catching someone off guard or surprising them when they are not expecting it. It implies that the person was not paying attention or unaware of their surroundings.

For example, “I caught him with his eyes closed when I told him the news.”
If someone is daydreaming and not paying attention, you might say, “Don’t get caught with your eyes closed.”
A teacher might scold a student who is not paying attention by saying, “You’ll never learn if you’re always caught with your eyes closed.”

72. Catch someone with their mouth open

This phrase is used to describe catching someone off guard or surprising them to the point where they are left speechless. It implies that the person is so shocked or astonished that they are unable to respond.

For instance, “Her performance was so amazing, it caught the audience with their mouths open.”
If someone is surprised by a gift or unexpected news, you might say, “You caught me with my mouth open.”
A parent might proudly say, “I caught my child with their mouth open when they saw their birthday surprise.”

73. Catch someone with their head in the clouds

This phrase is used to describe catching someone off guard or surprising them when they are not grounded in reality. It implies that the person is daydreaming or lost in their thoughts.

For example, “He was so lost in his thoughts that I caught him with his head in the clouds.”
If someone is not paying attention to their surroundings, you might say, “You’ll get caught with your head in the clouds.”
A friend might tease another friend by saying, “I caught you with your head in the clouds again. What were you daydreaming about this time?”

74. Catch someone with their mind elsewhere

This phrase is used to describe catching someone off guard or surprising them when their mind is focused on something else. It implies that the person is preoccupied or distracted, and not fully present in the current moment.

For instance, “She was so deep in thought that I caught her with her mind elsewhere.”
If someone is not paying attention to a conversation, you might say, “You’ll be caught with your mind elsewhere.”
A coworker might jokingly say, “I caught you with your mind elsewhere. What’s on your mind today?”