Antonyms for the phrase "catch unawares" include words like anticipate, expect, prepare, and forewarn. If you anticipate something, then you are prepared for it in advance, and it doesn't catch you off guard. Similarly, if you expect something to happen, you are not caught unawares by it when it occurs. Preparing yourself for potential situations is also a way to avoid being caught unawares. Forewarning someone is also a way to avoid them being caught unawares. By informing them of what might happen, they can be prepared for it, and it won't catch them by surprise. All these words can be seen as positive antonyms for "catch unawares.