take aback
phrasal verb
took aback; taken aback; taking aback; takes aback
: to surprise or shock (someone)
—usually used as (be) taken aback
When I told him my answer, he seemed taken aback.
—often + byHe was taken aback by her answer.
Examples of take aback in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
We were taken aback by the remarkable balance this dram strikes; a bargain between sandalwood aromas, creamy vanilla textures, and a chili pepper palate.
—
Brad Japhe, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024
While the Padres went on to win the game 10-2 and tie the series at 1-1, both players and coaches were taken aback by the tense scene at Dodger Stadium.
—Danielle Jennings, People.com, 7 Oct. 2024
Even auto CEOs have been taken aback by the divide.
—Peter Green, Quartz, 6 Oct. 2024
Longtime judge Carrie Ann Inaba told Entertainment Weekly that she was taken aback by Delvey’s comment.
—Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for take aback 
Brad Japhe, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024
While the Padres went on to win the game 10-2 and tie the series at 1-1, both players and coaches were taken aback by the tense scene at Dodger Stadium.
—Danielle Jennings, People.com, 7 Oct. 2024
Even auto CEOs have been taken aback by the divide.
—Peter Green, Quartz, 6 Oct. 2024
Longtime judge Carrie Ann Inaba told Entertainment Weekly that she was taken aback by Delvey’s comment.
—Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for take aback
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'take aback.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Take aback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20aback. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
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