off-balance

adjective (or adverb)

1

: not well proportioned : out of balance

the plans are off-balance

their military is off-balance

2

: not standing, sitting, or resting in normal physical equilibrium

caught off-balance and knocked down

—Jack Dempsey

3

a

: upset from or in a state of being upset by confusion : upsetting

the off-balance presentation of alternatives

—S. L. Payne

keep us off-balance

b

: into a state of surprise from the unexpected

may turn us momentarily off-balance by saying one thing when he means another

—R. B. West

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now