take aback
The phrase "take aback" is often used to describe a strong, unexpected reaction to something surprising or shocking.
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Definition
B2General
(idiomatic)To surprise or shock someone, often causing them to be momentarily unsure or confused.
Example
- I was taken aback by the sudden news.
- Everyone was taken aback by her unexpected reaction.
C1Nautical
(technical, nautical)Of a ship: to catch it with the sails aback suddenly.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "take aback":
taken abacktake backbowl overstand backstep backblow awaycaught on the hop