keep someone on the hop

keep (one) on the hop

1. To keep one in a state of unpreparedness or uncertainty. The rapid advances in technology have kept cyber-security officials on the hop in recent years.
2. To keep one very busy or in a hectic or chaotic state. The boss has kept us on the hop so that we get these projects done before the break. Having six kids definitely keeps you on the hop, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
See also: hop, keep, on
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

keep someone on the hop

BRITISH
If you keep someone on the hop, you cause them problems by doing things they do not expect. Better policing is keeping the drug traffickers on the hop. Compare with catch someone on the hop.
See also: hop, keep, on, someone
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
See also:
  • keep (one) on the hop
  • rump session
  • be caught on the hop
  • hop to it
  • Hop to it!
  • bunny hop
  • hop joint
  • have a part to play
  • Giving Tuesday
  • hop in(to something)