understand

[beachboy]

Is there an expression in English, at least similar, meaning not to be able to express an opinion or understand exactly what people are talking about because you arrived in the middle of the conversation?

[Tdol]

You could say something like 'I've only just joined' (at the time) or 'I arrived halfway through so I missed a lot' (afterwards). I can't think of a neat expression- maybe someone can.

[TheParser]

Is there an expression in English, at least similar, meaning not to be able to express an opinion or understand exactly what people are talking about because you arrived in the middle of the conversation?

***** NOT A TEACHER *****

Good afternoon, Beachboy.

TOM: Excuse me. I just got here. What are they talking about?

YOU (who arrived only 1 minute before Tom): IT BEATS ME. ( = I have no

idea) I just got here, too, dude!!!

*****

Of course, only young people like you should use that "dude" word. It would be ridiculous for an old person like me to use it.

Have a nice day.

[beachboy]

Thanks a lot, but I´m not that young. Maybe I shouldn´t use the word either!!

[Tdol]

If you're visiting the UK, I wouldn't use it there either.