throw someone

Idioms  

1. Cause someone to be confused or perplexed, disconcert someone, as in We didn't let our worries throw us, or That unfavorable review threw her. [Colloquial; mid-1800s] Also see knock for a loop.

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Example Sentences

"If you throw someone into this environment and they are not quite ready we have seen how harsh it can be," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 24, 2025

As for sink or swim tactics: They work for some people, but they traumatize others, and sometimes when you throw someone into the deep end, they just drown.

From Slate • Jan. 5, 2023

“The idea that these landlords are itching to throw someone out is a lot of hooey.”

From Washington Times • Dec. 12, 2021

Still, Dr. Newburger said, “You can’t throw someone back into exercise because you’ll take one step forward and two backward.”

From New York Times • Aug. 8, 2021

He bowed to Cyrus, called him “Senator,” and indicated that he would give Adam a room if he had to throw someone out.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck