Flat-footed

Flat-footed describes a condition where the arches of the foot are collapsed, causing the entire sole to touch the ground when standing. More broadly, it can also describe a person who is awkward, unprepared, or slow-witted, often caught off guard or at a disadvantage. This can apply physically, referring to clumsy movements, or metaphorically, representing someone who is ill-equipped to handle a situation or unexpected event. The term highlights a lack of agility, responsiveness, or strategic thinking.

Flat-footed meaning with examples

• The hiker was flat-footed and struggled to keep up with the group, repeatedly tripping on the uneven terrain. His lack of agility was a definite disadvantage on the trail. He needed to focus and pay attention to the path ahead, or he'd fall again. His slow-witted responses resulted in unnecessary falls during the journey.
• Caught flat-footed by the sudden market crash, the investor lost a significant portion of their portfolio. They were unprepared for the sudden volatility. They should have diversified their investments to prevent such a disaster. The sudden news and rapid changes left them scrambling to recover.
• The security guard, flat-footed and slow to react, failed to prevent the theft from occurring. He should have been patrolling and checking for suspicious behavior. His lack of readiness allowed the criminals to escape with their loot. His clumsy nature was not suited to his job.
• The team was caught flat-footed when the opposing team used an unexpected strategy, leading to a quick loss. They hadn't practiced this, and weren't prepared to counter this strategy. This left them unable to keep up and defend themselves. They will be more prepared next time.
• Although the old man was physically flat-footed, he had a wealth of knowledge and a sharp mind. Even though he may have fallen, his experience allows him to stand up for himself. He was anything but slow witted. His mental acuity compensated for any physical limitations.