The idiom "put someone on the spot" means to ask someone a difficult question or to make them feel uncomfortable by asking them to do something they may not be prepared to do.
For example, if a teacher suddenly asks a student to solve a math problem in front of the whole class, the student may feel put on the spot. Similarly, if a boss asks an employee to give a presentation without any prior notice, the employee may feel put on the spot.
This idiom is often used in situations where someone is being asked to do something that they may not be comfortable with or may not have the necessary skills or knowledge to do. It can also be used to describe situations where someone is being pressured to make a decision or take a particular action.
In general, it is considered impolite to put someone on the spot, as it can be embarrassing or uncomfortable for the person being asked. As a native English tutor, it's important to be aware of this idiom and to teach your students how to use it appropriately in different contexts.
• I don't want to put you on the spot, but can you tell me where the bathroom is?
• The professor put the students on the spot during the exam by asking them to explain complex concepts in their own words.
• She was put on the spot when her boss asked her to explain why the project was behind schedule.
• The lawyer put the witness on the spot by asking him to provide specific details about the night of the crime.
• During the meeting, the CEO was put on the spot when the shareholders asked her about the company's declining profits.
• The journalist put the politician on the spot by asking her about her stance on gun control.