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.
Given the reputation Lamborghinis have of catching out inexperienced drivers, the Temerario is reassuringly forgiving of a driver getting a little too enthusiastic with the accelerator pedal. James Morris, Forbes.com, 23 May 2026 The opening goal was so avoidable, with Liverpool caught out by a short corner routine as Morgan Rogers had time and space in the box to fire home. James Pearce, New York Times, 16 May 2026 BlackRock back hedge funds Hedge funds suffered steep losses in March, with their portfolio positions caught out by the Middle East conflict and resulting oil price spike. Hugh Leask, CNBC, 7 May 2026 Brugts struck the post after the interval as Barcelona regained its earlier dominance, only to be caught out when Kett leveled in the 69th. ABC News, 25 Apr. 2026 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 31 May. 2026.

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