not know what hit one
Shocked without warning
To not know what hit one is to be taken completely by surprise, especially by something sudden and overwhelming.
The phrase often describes being blindsided by bad news, unexpected events, or rapid change: The industry changed so fast that traditional retailers didn't know what hit them.
It can also describe physical or emotional shock: When the diagnosis came, she didn't know what hit her.
- speechlessnessInability to speak
- astonishmentIntense sudden wonder
- ambushSurprise strike from concealment
- out of nowhereWithout apparent origin
- bewildermentState of being baffled
sucker punch · knocked for a loop · perplexity · incredulity · confusion · deer in headlights · plot twist · shell-shocked · disorientation · amazement · blindsided · blind spot · stupefaction · flabbergastment · surprise party · bolt from the blue · freeze · adrenaline rush
not know what hit onebe prepared
State of anticipatory readiness
see it coming · anticipate · be on the lookout · have one's guard up · be vigilant
not know what hit onehave one's finger on the pulse
Be well-informed about developments