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Region: US | Usage example: His suggestion came out of left field.

Out of left field

Meaning

Unexpected or surprising.

Usage

Used to describe unpredictable ideas.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Baseball term for hits originating from left field that catch fielders off guard.

20th-century American sports writing broadened it to any surprise.

Related Idioms

Left field

Unusual or unexpected.

Have a field day

Enjoy doing something, especially with enthusiasm.

Level playing field

Create fair conditions so everyone has equal opportunity.

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.