Meaning of the word "catch out" in English

What does "catch out" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

catch out

US /kætʃ aʊt/

UK /kætʃ aʊt/

to discover someone doing something wrong or something they intended to keep secret

Example:

•

The teacher caught him out cheating on the exam.

•

She tried to lie, but her story caught her out.

Synonym:

expose uncover detect apprehend trap

to put someone in a difficult or embarrassing situation, especially by asking a trick question

Example:

•

The lawyer tried to catch the witness out with a series of tricky questions.

•

Be careful, he's trying to catch you out.

Synonym:

trick trap embarrass confuse corner

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