WordValeblindsided
surprised by something unexpected and unwelcome
In more detail
1. (verb) hit or attacked from the side, especially when you are not expecting it or cannot see it coming
2. (verb) to surprise someone with unexpected bad news or information that shocks them
Examples
- 1. The car was blindsided by a truck that ran through a red light.
- 2. I was blindsided when my boss told me I was being fired without any warning.
How to use blindsided
Blindsided describes being caught completely unaware by something harmful, disappointing, or shocking, often implying an element of unfairness or treachery. It can refer to literal physical attacks from an unseen direction, but more commonly describes emotional or informational shock. The term carries a stronger sense of helplessness and betrayal than simple surprise.
Common phrases
- blindsided by
- completely blindsided
- totally blindsided
- blindsided by news
- blindsided by an attack
Synonyms
ambushed · caught off guard · surprised · shocked · taken aback
Opposites
forewarned · prepared
Word family
blindside (verb/noun) · blindsiding (gerund/present participle) · blindsider (noun, less common)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use blindsided to mean merely receiving unexpected news, when the word more strongly implies something harmful, negative, or shocking rather than simply surprising.
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