How to Pronounce "catch up short"
expression
ˈkætʃ/ /ˈəp/ /ˈʃɔɹt
KATCH-uP-SHORT
kˈætʃ/ /ˈʌp/ /ʃˈɔːt
KATCH-UP-SHAWT
Definition
To take someone by surprise, especially when they are not prepared or expecting it. It often refers to suddenly stopping or interrupting someone.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈkætʃ/ /ˈəp/ /ˈʃɔɹt
British English
kˈætʃ/ /ˈʌp/ /ʃˈɔːt
Simplified Pronunciation
US
KATCH-uP-SHORT
UK
KATCH-UP-SHAWT
Listen in Context
The teacher's question caught Tom up short.
She was caught up short when her name was called.
I was caught up short by the loud noise.
His sudden question really caught me up short during the meeting.