take aback

phrasal verb

took aback; taken aback; taking aback; takes aback

Synonyms of take aback next

: to surprise or shock (someone)

—usually used as (be) taken aback

When I told him my answer, he seemed taken aback.

—often + by

He was taken aback by her answer.

Examples of take aback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Iris is rightfully taken aback, and in her anger decides not to release Isaac. —

Jourdain Searles, The Hollywood Reporter, 29 Jan. 2025 Supporters were taken aback by news of United’s willingness to countenance offers for Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, with Napoli and Chelsea both pursuing the latter. —

Mark Critchley, The Athletic, 22 Jan. 2025 Even Hall of Fame athletes are taken aback by President Donald Trump's golf game. —

Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 21 Jan. 2025 Most prominently, discussions about the cost-of-living dominated, with many taken aback by the apparently cheap rent and cost of good quality groceries in China. —

David Faris, Newsweek, 18 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for take aback