“Taken Aback” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 9, 2024 by Liam Daniel

In this reference, you will learn about the phrase “taken aback.” It explains the meaning and origin of the phrase. You will find examples of how to use “taken aback” in conversations or statements. This reference also provides alternative expressions that convey the same meaning. By reading this, you will understand where the phrase comes from and see it in different contexts.

Taken Aback Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “Taken aback” means to be surprised or shocked by something unexpected, often causing you to pause or react with surprise.
Taken Aback Meaning
Taken Aback Meaning – Created by 7ESL

Taken Aback Meaning

“Taken aback” means to be surprised or startled, often in a way that causes you to pause or react unexpectedly. It usually refers to a strong or sudden reaction to something unexpected, often in a negative or shocking way. The phrase is commonly used to describe moments of emotional or mental surprise.

Origin of this Idiomatic Expression

The phrase “taken aback” is a combination of two words. Aback was once two separate words that were merged into two to mean a backward movement. The first appearance of this phrase was in 1697 in a London newspaper and was used to describe the sails of a ship as they caught the wind. Over the years, the definition above has been adopted and the only time the word aback is used is when stating this phrase.

Usage of “Taken Aback”

Here are some examples of how to use “taken aback” in sentences:

  1. In surprise or shock:
    • I was taken aback when my boss praised me for my work; I wasn’t expecting it at all.
  2. Reacting to unexpected behavior:
    • She was taken aback by his rude comments, as he usually spoke politely.
  3. Facing an unforeseen situation:
    • The team was taken aback when they learned the project deadline was moved up by two weeks.
  4. In conversations:
    • John was taken aback when Sarah abruptly ended the conversation and walked away.

Related Terms to “Taken Aback”

  • Astonished – Feeling great surprise or amazement.
  • Stunned – So shocked or surprised that one is temporarily unable to react.
  • Flabbergasted – Extremely surprised or shocked.
  • Dumbfounded – Greatly astonished or amazed, often to the point of being speechless.
  • Startled – Surprised or alarmed, often due to something sudden or unexpected.
  • Shocked – A strong feeling of surprise, often due to something negative.
  • Baffled – Extremely confused or puzzled by something unexpected.
  • Caught off guard – Surprised by something unexpected, often when unprepared.

Other Ways to Say “Taken Aback”

There are many ways that the idiomatic saying “taken aback” can be said in order to convey the same meaning. Some of the other things you could say include:

  • Amazed
  • In awe
  • Surprised
  • Shocked
  • Disconcerted

“Taken Aback” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement by a celebrity when being interviewed at a charity event about the donation of another celebrity.

  • “I was taken aback by his degree of generosity. He is a very kind man.”

A statement made by a high school football coach when being interviewed a few days after a big game.

  • “I am taken aback by the generous outpouring of love from our school and our community for our quarterback who was injured during the game on Friday night.”

Examples in Conversation

A conversation between a woman and a homeless woman on the street.

  • Homeless woman: Do you have a bit of change to spare? I have not eaten in a few days.
  • Woman: (Handing her money) I’ll tell you what. You come with me and I will buy you a nice hot meal and find you a warm place to stay for the night.
  • Homeless woman: Wow! I am taken aback by your kindness and generosity. Thank you so much!

More interesting examples:

  • I was taken aback by the news of his death.
  • He was taken aback by the new demands of the job.
  • I was taken aback, but deep down I wasn’t totally surprised.
  • Don’t be taken aback by my comments. I’m sorry for that.
  • Guys in the class will generally be taken aback, and ask me how I know this.
  • I was taken aback by what I saw.
  • Jenny was taken aback by some of the portraits.
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