Meaning of the word "be like a deer caught in the headlights" in English

What does "be like a deer caught in the headlights" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

be like a deer caught in the headlights

US /bi laɪk ə dɪr kɔt ɪn ðə ˈhɛdˌlaɪts/
UK /bi laɪk ə dɪr kɔt ɪn ðə ˈhɛdˌlaɪts/
"be like a deer caught in the headlights" picture

Idiom

1.

to be so surprised or frightened that you cannot move or think

Example:
When the teacher asked him a question, he just stood there like a deer caught in the headlights.
She was so shocked by the news that she just froze, like a deer caught in the headlights.
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