FLAT-FOOTED Synonyms: 19 Similar and Opposite Words

flat-footed

adjective

Definition of flat-footed

as in unprepared

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of flat-footed Despite being an early investor in data centers, the company has been caught flat-footed, being surpassed by not only obvious incumbents like NVIDIA and AMD, but also newcomers like Cerebrus. — Noelle Harff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 May 2026 The cinematography, score and editing all stay flat-footed in deference to its lead. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2026 But the person also predicted that some of crypto’s allies in Washington could be caught flat-footed by the banking ramp-up. — Rachel Witkowski, semafor.com, 15 Sep. 2025 Interestingly the Milei administration appeared to have been caught flat-footed by the news. — Agustino Fontevecchia, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flat-footed

Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat-footed

Adjective

But the Dodgers did not want to be caught unprepared should a sudden injury arise to Rushing.

— Katie Woo, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
Not only do these caregivers end up feeling unprepared to take on the dual role, but balancing the costs of child care and senior care simultaneously is reshaping nearly every one of their financial decisions.

— Medora Lee, USA Today, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of unprepared

Adjective

While perennially hot regions such as Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have developed strategies to mitigate the business impacts, European companies are comparatively underprepared for the hotter temperatures coming their way.

— Oliver Balch, Fortune, 27 July 2026
Indian troops were deployed to thwart Chinese advances but were reportedly inadequately supplied, underprepared, and overwhelmed.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 22 July 2026

Definition of underprepared

Adjective

Even if maritime regulators demanded shippers purchase more defendable vessels, the crews aboard are unready for the challenge.

— Craig Hooper, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
Andrews has gone viral multiple times for demystifying how ballroom dancers get ready, and, more specifically, unready.

— Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 12 Apr. 2026

Definition of unready

Browse Nearby Words

flatfoot

flat-footed

flatlet

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“Flat-footed.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat-footed. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of flat-footed

adjective

Example Sentences

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