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What does "Out of left field" mean?
Unexpected or surprising; something that comes from an unforeseen source.
When do you use "Out of left field"?
This phrase is appropriate to use when discussing events, comments, or actions that are surprising and not anticipated, particularly in casual conversations or informal writing.
"Out of left field" Usage Examples
- His proposal for a new project came out of left field, and we weren’t sure how to respond.
- I was completely caught off guard when she announced her resignation; it was totally out of left field.
- The sudden change in management was out of left field and left many employees confused.
- When he started talking about his plans to move to another country, it felt like it came out of left field.
- Her unexpected criticism of the report was definitely out of left field and shocked everyone in the meeting.
"Out of left field" Explained
The phrase 'out of left field' is believed to have originated from baseball. In the game, a ball hit to left field can be unexpected for players who are not anticipating a play coming from that direction. This concept of surprise has been adopted into everyday language to describe situations where something occurs unexpectedly or without warning.