catch out

verb

caught out; catching out; catches out

transitive verb

1
: to detect in error or wrongdoing
caught him out committing perjury
2
: to take unawares or by surprise

Examples of catch out in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Although caught out by a shot from 30 yards from Dutch substitute Noah Ohio for their equaliser, Beadle is likely to retain his place for Saturday’s final against Germany. Andy Naylor, New York Times, 27 June 2025 He was caught out by undercover agents posing as interested parties, according to the DOJ. Thomas Brewster, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025 Indeed, many internet users have hailed his ingenuity to catch out potential cheaters. Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 May 2025 Perhaps caught out by the directness of City’s play, the near-side assistant referee was behind the play and did not flag for a handball. Matt Pyzdrowski, New York Times, 18 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for catch out

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of catch out was in 1759

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Catch out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catch%20out. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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