Take aback

usgb
phrasal verb

To surprise or shock someone.

I was taken aback by her honesty about her past.
Visual representation of "take aback" - To surprise or shock someone

Often appears as...

  • taken aback by
  • quite taken aback

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "take aback"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Reaction

Use 'take aback' to describe an immediate emotional response, especially surprise or shock.

Illustration for Emotional Reaction
She was taken aback by the surprise party her friends threw for her.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unexpected Events

'Take aback' is fitting when something happens that is not anticipated and causes a strong reaction.

Illustration for Unexpected Events
He was taken aback when he discovered he had won the lottery.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Negative

The phrase doesn't always imply a negative surprise; it can be neutral or positive.

Illustration for Not Negative
I was taken aback by the sheer beauty of the landscape.
Visual representation of the word "Take aback"

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