throw someone for a loop

throw (one) for a loop

To shock, surprise, astonish, or bewilder one. The end of that trick always throws the audience for a loop. I love watching their faces as they desperately try to figure it out. It really threw Stu for a loop when Olivia announced she was leaving the company.See also: loop, throw

throw someone for a loop

or

knock someone for a loop

AMERICAN, INFORMALIf someone or something throws you for a loop or knocks you for a loop, they shock you or surprise you very much. If Kravis's offer had thrown him for a loop, Johnson wasn't letting it show. She was wearing a top hat, the sight of which knocked Jamie for a loop.See also: loop, someone, throw

throw (or knock) someone for a loop

surprise or astonish someone; catch someone off guard. North AmericanSee also: loop, someone, throw

throw someone for a loop

tv. to confuse or surprise someone. Don’t let this question throw you for a loop. See also: loop, someone, throw