catch/take somebody unawares

caught unawares

To be surprised by someone or something. A: "Oh man, I was totally caught unawares when your mother showed up here this morning." B: "I figured as much when she told me that you answered the door in your robe and curlers!"
See also: caught, unawares
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

catch/take somebody unaˈwares

surprise somebody; do something when somebody does not expect it: Her sudden refusal took me unawares. You caught us unawares by coming so early.
See also: catch, somebody, take, unawares
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • caught unaware
  • caught unawares
  • unaware
  • unawares
  • footed
  • be caught on the hop
  • flat-footed, to be caught/catch
  • be caught flat-footed
  • catch (one) by surprise
  • twist (something) off of (something)