[Idiom] THROW A CURVEBALL. - Expect the Unexpected: Navigating Life’s Surprises

Do something unexpected that may be difficult to handle.

To "throw a curveball" means to do something surprising or unexpected that may complicate matters. Originally from baseball, where a curveball is a pitch that veers sharply from a straight path, it's used metaphorically to describe any action or event that disrupts expectations. For example, if a company introduces a sudden change in management or policy that employees must quickly adapt to, it is akin to throwing a curveball. This phrase underscores the need for flexibility and adaptability in response to unforeseen challenges.

Example Sentences

1. The sudden change in policy really threw a curveball at us.

   An unexpected policy change disrupted their usual way of handling things.

2. When he brought up that unexpected topic, it really threw a curveball into the discussion.

   The introduction of an unforeseen topic during the conversation caught everyone off guard.

3. During the negotiation, she threw a curveball by suddenly demanding twice the original amount.

   Her sudden demand for double the original offer during negotiations was unexpected and disrupted the flow.