CAUGHT Meaning and
Definition
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Caught is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "catch." The term is commonly used to describe the action of seizing, capturing, or grabbing something or someone. It typically implies an act of capturing or stopping the motion of an object or individuals in a sudden or unexpected manner.
In a literal sense, caught commonly refers to physically intercepting an object that is in motion. For instance, one can catch a ball that is thrown towards them, preventing it from hitting the ground. Similarly, one can catch a falling object to avoid it from breaking or causing harm. Moreover, caught can also be used in the context of capturing living beings, like capturing fish in a net or catching insects using a trap.
However, caught can also be applied metaphorically to describe a situation in which someone is apprehended, discovered, or found guilty of wrongdoing. In this sense, it represents being caught in the act of committing a prohibited or illegal action. For example, if a person is caught stealing, they have been caught in the act of taking something without permission.
Overall, the term caught encapsulates the notion of intercepting or capturing something, whether it be a physical object or someone committing an offense, thereby interrupting their intended course of action.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for CAUGHT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CAUGHT
Etymology of CAUGHT
The word caught comes from the Middle English word cauhten which is the past participle of the verb cachen or cachen in Old English. In Old English, cachen meant to catch or to seize. The word can be traced back to the Germanic language family, where it is related to similar words in German (fangen) and Dutch (vangen). Ultimately, the origin of the word can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *gheg- meaning to take, seize.
Idioms with the word CAUGHT
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be like a deer/rabbit caught in the headlights
The idiom "be like a deer/rabbit caught in the headlights" means to be frozen or stunned with fear and indecision, often in a situation where one feels overwhelmed or surprised. It refers to the behavior of a deer or rabbit when caught in the bright headlights of a vehicle, causing them to become momentarily paralyzed.
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be (caught) between a rock and a hard place
The idiom "be (caught) between a rock and a hard place" means to be in a difficult situation where there are no desirable options or solutions. It refers to feeling stuck or trapped between two equally challenging or unpleasant choices, with no easy way out.
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caught in the crossfire
The definition of the idiom "caught in the crossfire" is being unintentionally involved or affected by a conflict or dispute between two or more opposing sides. It often refers to an individual or a group who becomes a victim or suffers the consequences amid a situation where conflicting parties are exchanging gunfire or engaged in a heated argument.
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caught in the act
The idiom "caught in the act" means to be discovered or observed in the midst of doing something wrong, illegal, or shameful. It implies being caught red-handed or in the very act of committing an offense or engaging in an improper behavior.
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caught short
The idiom "caught short" refers to being in a situation where one desperately needs something, especially in an inconvenient or embarrassing manner, but lacks or does not have enough of it.
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be caught short
The idiom "be caught short" means to be in a situation where one lacks something essential or necessary, usually due to poor planning or unforeseen circumstances. It can describe situations where a person is unprepared or lacking resources such as money, time, or supplies at a critical moment.
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be caught with your pants/trousers down
The idiom "be caught with your pants/trousers down" means to be found in a compromising or embarrassing situation or to be unprepared for an unexpected situation. It typically refers to being caught off guard and not ready to face the consequences or deal with the aftermath of a certain situation.
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caught unaware(s)
The idiom "caught unaware" means to be taken by surprise or unexpectedly confronted with a situation, often resulting in not being prepared to react or respond appropriately. It implies being caught off guard or lacking prior knowledge or anticipation of something that occurs suddenly or unexpectedly.
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be caught in the crossfire
The idiom "be caught in the crossfire" means to become involved in a conflict or dispute that is taking place between other people or parties, often resulting in being unintentionally harmed or affected by their actions or words. It implies being caught between two opposing sides or arguments without having intended to become part of it.
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would not be caught dead
The idiom "would not be caught dead" means that someone strongly dislikes or is strongly opposed to a particular thing or activity. They would never engage in it, even under extreme circumstances or pressure. It expresses a strong sense of aversion or refusal.
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(get) caught up in sth
The idiom "(get) caught up in sth" refers to becoming deeply involved or engrossed in a particular activity, situation, or issue, often to the point of losing track of time or forgetting about other responsibilities. It implies being taken away or absorbed by something, usually in a way that is exhilarating, intense, or overwhelming.
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caught up in sth
The idiom "caught up in something" means to become fully involved or engrossed in a situation or activity. It suggests being taken by surprise or being overwhelmed by something unexpected or happening rapidly.
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caught in the middle
The idiom "caught in the middle" refers to a situation where someone is stuck or placed in a difficult position due to conflicting or contradictory forces or expectations from different individuals or groups. It implies being caught between two opposing sides, opinions, or circumstances, often leading to a sense of confusion, tension, or helplessness.
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be caught in the middle
The idiom "be caught in the middle" means to be in a difficult or stressful situation where one is stuck between two conflicting or opposing sides or groups. It implies being in a position where one must remain neutral or make a difficult decision, often leading to personal conflict or a feeling of being trapped.
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caught with your pants down
The idiom "caught with your pants down" typically means being caught in an embarrassing, awkward, or compromising situation unexpectedly or unprepared. It implies being exposed or caught in an action or situation that one would not want others to see or know about. The phrase often refers to being caught doing something inappropriate or scandalous, often related to a person's private or personal matters.
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sb would not be caught dead
The idiom "sb would not be caught dead" is an expression used to convey an extreme disinclination or unwillingness towards a particular action, thing, or situation. It indicates that someone strongly avoids or rejects something so much so that they would never consider participating or being associated with it, even at the cost of their own life.
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be caught napping
The definition of the idiom "be caught napping" refers to being caught off guard or unprepared for a situation or event. It means to be unaware, inattentive, or distracted, resulting in being surprised or caught by surprise by something unexpected.
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caught with pants down
The idiom "caught with pants down" refers to a situation where someone is unexpectedly exposed or embarrassed, often because they were unprepared or engaged in inappropriate behavior. It implies being caught in a vulnerable or compromising position.
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be caught with pants down
The idiom "be caught with pants down" means to be surprised, exposed, or caught off guard in an embarrassing or compromising situation. It often refers to being caught in an unexpected or inappropriate situation that leaves one feeling vulnerable or unprepared.
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caught between two stools
The idiom "caught between two stools" means being in a situation where one is unable to choose between two options or failing to achieve a satisfactory outcome due to indecision or hesitation.
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wouldn’t be caught dead
The idiom "wouldn't be caught dead" means that someone strongly dislikes or has a strong aversion to something, to the point where they would never participate in or be associated with it under any circumstances. It implies that such an action or situation is completely unacceptable or beneath their standards.
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be caught in the act
The idiom "be caught in the act" means to be discovered or observed in the midst of doing something wrong, illegal, or embarrassing. It implies being caught red-handed, or being found out while engaging in an activity or behavior that one shouldn't be doing.
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caught between the devil and the deep blue sea
The idiom "caught between the devil and the deep blue sea" means being in a dilemma where one is faced with two equally undesirable or potentially harmful choices or situations. It implies being stuck in a difficult situation with no apparent good options or outcomes.
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be caught in a time warp
The idiom "be caught in a time warp" refers to being stuck in the past or unable to adapt to modern changes. It implies someone or something that seems out of touch or outdated in relation to the present time or current trends.
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be caught off (one's) guard
The idiom "be caught off (one's) guard" means to be surprised, unprepared, or caught unaware by something unexpected or sudden happening or event. It refers to a situation where someone is not alert or ready for what is coming, leaving them vulnerable or at a disadvantage.
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be caught on the hop
The idiom "be caught on the hop" means to be caught or taken by surprise, often referring to a situation or event that one was not prepared for or expecting. It implies that someone is caught off guard or unprepared to deal with a certain situation.
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be caught (or taken) short
To be caught (or taken) short means to suddenly and unexpectedly find oneself in a situation where one urgently needs or desires something but does not have access to it. It usually refers to being unable to find or reach a toilet when one urgently needs to use it, but it can also apply to other situations where one is unprepared or lacking something essential in a critical moment.
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be caught with (one's) pants down
The idiom "be caught with one's pants down" refers to being unexpectedly exposed or caught in a situation of vulnerability, unpreparedness, or embarrassment, often involving a mistake or wrongdoing. It implies being caught off guard or being unable to conceal one's true intentions or actions.
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be caught with your trousers down
The idiom "be caught with your trousers down" means to be found in a vulnerable or embarrassing situation, often when one is unprepared or unaware. It signifies being caught off guard, being surprised, or being exposed in a compromising position.
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caught bending
The idiom "caught bending" refers to being caught in the act of doing something wrong, illegal, or morally questionable. It implies being caught in the middle of an illicit or forbidden activity, often resulting in negative consequences or punishment.
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caught in the crunch
The idiom "caught in the crunch" typically refers to a situation where someone is trapped or affected by a time period of difficulty or pressure. It represents being stuck between various demands or obligations, often leading to stress or overwhelm.
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be caught flat-footed
When someone is caught flat-footed, it means that they are surprised, unprepared, or caught off guard by a sudden or unexpected event or situation. It implies that the person lacks readiness or agility to respond effectively in that particular moment.
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be caught on the wrong foot
The idiom "be caught on the wrong foot" means to be caught off guard, surprised, or unprepared for a situation. It implies being in an unfavorable situation or having a disadvantageous start to something.
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be caught with (one's) trousers down
The idiom "be caught with one's trousers down" typically means to be caught in a vulnerable or embarrassing situation, often unexpectedly or unprepared. It suggests being caught off guard or being exposed in a compromising position, whether it's a metaphorical sense like being caught in a lie or a literal sense like being caught physically vulnerable or unprepared.
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be caught with your pants down
The idiom "be caught with your pants down" means to be caught off guard or unprepared in an embarrassing or vulnerable situation. It typically refers to someone being caught in an awkward or compromising position, either literally or metaphorically, when they were not expecting or prepared for it.
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be like a deer caught in the headlights
The idiom "be like a deer caught in the headlights" refers to a state of extreme shock, surprise, or confusion, often rendering someone motionless or unable to act or respond to a situation. It alludes to the reaction of a deer when it is suddenly surprised or fascinated by the bright lights of an approaching vehicle.
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caught flat-footed
The idiom "caught flat-footed" typically means to be caught by surprise or unprepared for a situation or event. It implies that someone is taken off guard, without having anticipated the circumstances or having a plan in place to deal with them.
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caught on the hop
The idiom "caught on the hop" means to be unexpectedly surprised or caught off guard by a situation or event. It suggests being unprepared or unable to quickly respond to something.
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caught unaware
The idiom "caught unaware" means to be taken by surprise or unexpectedly. It refers to a situation where someone is caught off guard or unprepared for a certain event or circumstance.
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caught unawares
The idiom "caught unawares" means to be taken by surprise or caught off guard, usually when unexpected or unprepared for a particular situation or event. It refers to being unaware or not anticipating something that suddenly happens.
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caught up in
The idiom "caught up in" refers to becoming fully involved or engrossed in something, often to the point of losing perspective or being overwhelmed by it. It suggests being so consumed by an activity, situation, or emotion that one becomes preoccupied or unable to think clearly.
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caught up in (something)
The idiom "caught up in (something)" refers to becoming intensely involved or preoccupied with a particular situation or activity. It implies being so engrossed or overwhelmed by something that one loses the ability to think or act rationally. It can often describe being swept away by excitement, emotions, or the demands of a situation, leading to a temporary loss of perspective or control.
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caught with (one's) hand in the cookie jar
The idiom "caught with (one's) hand in the cookie jar" means to be caught in the act of doing something wrong or dishonest, specifically when one is caught while attempting to take or steal something that doesn't belong to them. It often implies being caught in the act of indulging in an obvious temptation or committing a petty theft.
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caught with (one's) pants down
The idiom "caught with (one's) pants down" means to be caught in a vulnerable or embarrassing situation, often unexpectedly or unprepared. It can refer to someone being caught in the act of doing something wrong, immoral, or embarrassing, and thus unable to deny or escape the consequences. The phrase is derived from the literal image of someone being caught off guard while their pants are down, symbolizing a person's lack of readiness or concealment.
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caught with one's pants down, be
The idiom "caught with one's pants down" means to be unexpectedly exposed or unprepared for a situation, often resulting in feeling embarrassed or caught off guard. This phrase usually refers to someone being caught in an awkward or compromising situation when they are not ready to handle it. It can also imply being caught in a dishonest or scandalous act when not expecting to be discovered.
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like a rabbit caught in the headlights
The idiom "like a rabbit caught in the headlights" refers to someone who is frozen in fear or unable to react or think clearly due to shock or extreme surprise. It originated from the behavior of a rabbit when it sees car headlights approaching - rather than fleeing or taking action, the rabbit becomes momentarily paralyzed.
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like a deer caught in the headlights
The idiom "like a deer caught in the headlights" refers to someone feeling or appearing frozen, confused, or unable to move or react when faced with a sudden or unexpected situation. It implies a state of shock, overwhelming surprise, or being completely taken aback. It originates from the behavior of a deer, which becomes momentarily paralyzed when it sees bright headlights on a vehicle approach it at night.
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be caught between two stools
The idiom "be caught between two stools" means to be in a dilemma or indecisive situation where someone is unable to choose between two options, leading to indecision or an inability to fully commit to either alternative. This often results in missed opportunities or a lack of progress. The idiom metaphorically refers to someone sitting on two stools simultaneously, not being fully on one or the other.
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be caught/taken short
The idiom "be caught/taken short" typically means to suddenly have an urgent need to use the bathroom but find oneself in a situation or location where it is difficult or impossible to do so. It implies being unprepared or unable to find a suitable place to relieve oneself.
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caught dead, wouldn't be
The idiom "caught dead, wouldn't be" is a variation of the phrase "wouldn't be caught dead." It is used to express strong disapproval or unwillingness to do something, suggesting that the speaker would rather die than engage in a particular activity or be associated with a certain person or thing. It emphasizes the speaker's absolute refusal or aversion.
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somebody wouldn't be seen/caught dead...
The idiom "somebody wouldn't be seen/caught dead..." is used to express a strong aversion or unwillingness to be associated with or involved in something. It implies that the person in question would never partake in the activity or wear/do something because they consider it extremely embarrassing, inappropriate, or against their principles.
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wouldn't be caught dead (doing something)
The idiom "wouldn't be caught dead (doing something)" means that a person strongly dislikes or has a strong aversion to a particular action or behavior. They find it embarrassing, inappropriate, or beneath them and would never engage in or be associated with it.
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wouldn't be caught/seen dead
The idiom "wouldn't be caught/seen dead" is used to express a strong aversion or reluctance towards something. It means that a person would never voluntarily be associated with or participate in a particular activity, visit a certain place, or wear specific clothes because they find it extremely unappealing or incompatible with their personality or values.
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wouldn't be caught dead
The idiom "wouldn't be caught dead" is used to express a strong aversion or refusal toward something, suggesting that a person would not engage in a specific activity or be associated with something, even if it meant risking their life. It conveys a sentiment of extreme disapproval, revulsion, or embarrassment towards the subject in question.
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be caught with chaff
Similar spelling words for CAUGHT
- cut,
- Caught,
- cat,
- haughty,
- nought,
- cough,
- taught,
- Bought,
- ought,
- Fought,
- court,
- naught,
- sought,
- cart,
- naughty,
- curt.
Conjugate verb Caught
CONDITIONAL
I
would caught
you
would caught
he/she/it
would caught
we
would caught
they
would caught
I
would catch
we
would catch
you
would catch
he/she/it
would catch
they
would catch
CONDITIONAL CONTINUOUS
I
would be catching
you
would be catching
he/she/it
would be catching
we
would be catching
they
would be catching
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have caught
you
would have caught
he/she/it
would have caught
we
would have caught
they
would have caught
CONDITIONAL PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
would have been catching
you
would have been catching
he/she/it
would have been catching
we
would have been catching
they
would have been catching
FUTURE
I
will catch
you
will catch
he/she/it
will catch
we
will catch
they
will catch
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be catching
you
will be catching
he/she/it
will be catching
we
will be catching
they
will be catching
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have caught
you
will have caught
he/she/it
will have caught
we
will have caught
they
will have caught
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been catching
you
will have been catching
he/she/it
will have been catching
we
will have been catching
they
will have been catching
IMPERATIVE
you
catch
we
let´s catch
to catch
PAST
I
caught
you
caught
he/she/it
caught
we
caught
they
caught
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was catching
you
were catching
he/she/it
was catching
we
were catching
they
were catching
PAST PARTICIPLE
caught
PAST PERFECT
I
had caught
you
had caught
he/she/it
had caught
we
had caught
they
had caught
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been catching
you
had been catching
he/she/it
had been catching
we
had been catching
they
had been catching
PRESENT
I
catch
you
catch
he/she/it
catches
we
catch
they
catch
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am catching
you
are catching
he/she/it
is catching
we
are catching
they
are catching
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
catching
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have caught
you
have caught
he/she/it
has caught
we
have caught
they
have caught
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been catching
you
have been catching
he/she/it
has been catching
we
have been catching
they
have been catching
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