gotcha

noun

got·​cha ˈgä-chə How to pronounce gotcha (audio)
Synonyms of gotchanext
: an unexpected usually disconcerting challenge, revelation, or catch
The program has a few gotchas for unsuspecting computer users.
also : an attempt to embarrass, expose, or disgrace someone (such as a politician) with a gotcha
… the moderators' claim that … a more or less uninterrupted stream of … gotchas was justified by focusing the debate on 'electability'. —Josh Marshall

Synonyms of gotcha

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The opposite of the gotcha interview is the expert interview, when Chotiner lets people who know their trades inside out explain them to his devoted readership. — Merve Emre, The New York Review of Books, 1 Sep. 2026 There are no explosive revelations, gotcha moments, dramatic confessions, or theatrical outbursts. — Rhoda Feng, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026 To some extent, yes, the use of AI can be quite beneficial, but there are also serious gotchas and limitations that need to be dealt with. — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 In one light, this is a real gotcha moment. — Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 28 May 2026 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

Rhymes for gotcha

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Browse Nearby Words

gotch
gotcha
gote
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Cite this Entry

“Gotcha.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gotcha. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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