Caught on the hop

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Meaning

Caught off-guard or mid-step, surprised.

Origin

From 19th-century Britain, tied to hunting; 'hop' for rabbits caught, slang by 1880s for surprise. An 1889 'Times' uses it for a rushed chap.

Variants

  • On the hop

Usage Examples

  • He was caught on the hop by the quiz.
  • She got caught on the hop; no prep.
  • Caught on the hop-door's locked!

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