Caught with your trousers down

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Meaning

Caught unprepared or in a mess, exposed.

Origin

From 20th-century Britain, tied to 1930s slang; 'trousers down' for caught, as in a 1937 'Punch' for a gaffe. Possibly from bedroom farce or army pranks, it reflects a cheeky age and Brit wit.

Variants

  • Trousers down

Usage Examples

  • He was caught with his trousers down; no excuse.
  • Caught with her trousers down; she froze.
  • Trousers down; meeting crashed!

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