be thrown off balance

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does be thrown off balance mean? In what situations is be thrown off balance used?

Meaning of "be thrown off balance"

Meaning

To “be thrown off balance” is an idiom which means to be taken off guard, to be surprised or disturbed by something unexpected. It suggests the feeling of being staggering or off kilter, as though someone has been struck or knocked down. It is also used to describe a person who is upset or disoriented, whether it be emotionally or mentally.

Etymology

The phrase “be thrown off balance” dates back to the beginning of the 1600s and is derived from the literal definition of the word “balance.” Generally, when someone is “in balance,” they are in equilibrium and can make decisions without feeling overwhelmed by external stimulus or emotional turmoil. Thus, when someone is “thrown off balance,” his or her composure has been disrupted and he or she can no longer function in a structured manner.

Usage

The phrase “be thrown off balance” is most often used in an informal context and is often used in sentences like “he was thrown off balance by the news” or “the news threw her off balance.” It is frequently used to talk about someone’s emotional responses to something unexpected or surprising. It can also be used to describe someone who is feeling overwhelmed or out of sorts due to a certain situation.

Example Sentences

• The thunderstorm outside the window threw me off balance and I had a hard time concentrating on the task at hand.
• He was thrown off balance when he heard the news that his best friend had betrayed him.
• The sudden loss of her job threw her off balance, and she was unsure how to move forward.
• I was thrown off balance when I saw her after so many years.

From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms

English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.