"Catching short" can be described as a state of being taken off guard or surprised. Antonyms for this term would include words such as prepared, wary, alert, vigilant, and attentive. These antonyms suggest a sense of readiness, indicating that one is aware of their surroundings and able to react quickly in unexpected situations. By contrast, catching short implies a lack of preparedness, catching someone off guard and potentially leading to negative consequences. In order to avoid being caught short, it is important to remain attentive and vigilant, and always be prepared for the unexpected.