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Region: US | Usage example: He was caught with his pants down when the inspector visited.

Caught with your pants down

Meaning

Surprised while unprepared.

Usage

Used to describe embarrassing exposure.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Physical metaphor of vulnerability.

American slang from the early 1900s.

Related Idioms

Put your money where your mouth is

Support words with action or investment.

Ants in your pants

Restless energy or excitement.

By the seat of your pants

Doing something instinctively without a plan.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.