Antonyms or opposite meanings of "catching off-guard" can include words such as prepared, ready, watchful, vigilant, alert, expecting, anticipating, and forewarned. These words suggest a state of being aware and cautious, rather than unexpectedly caught unawares. Being prepared and alert can help prevent situations where a person might be caught off-guard, such as by a surprise attack or unexpected news. Anticipating potential risks and being forewarned can also allow for better planning and decision-making. In contrast, being caught off-guard can lead to a sense of vulnerability and disadvantage, which is often undesirable in many situations.