gotcha

noun

got·​cha ˈgä-chə How to pronounce gotcha (audio)
: an unexpected usually disconcerting challenge, revelation, or catch
also : an attempt to embarrass, expose, or disgrace someone (such as a politician) with a gotcha

Examples of gotcha in a Sentence

The program has a few gotchas in store for unsuspecting computer users. the gotcha in the low monthly rate quoted by the cable company is that it is a teaser and good for only six months
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
So, what are the biggest gotchas for vacation rental customers? Christopher Elliott, USA TODAY, 18 Oct. 2024 Harris handled this gotcha moment particularly well Harris handled one potential gotcha moment particularly well. Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 17 Oct. 2024 The problem is that during the getting up-to-speed time, there might be inadvertent gotchas or hiccups that arise. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024 The point of the agency is not a game of gotcha to try to criminally prosecute people. Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for gotcha 

Word History

Etymology

alteration of got you

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gotcha was in 1974

Dictionary Entries Near gotcha

Cite this Entry

“Gotcha.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gotcha. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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