"Taken aback" is a commonly used idiomatic expression that refers to the feeling of being surprised, shocked, or startled by unexpected circumstances or events. It describes a state of being momentarily caught off guard or overwhelmed by something unexpected or unfamiliar.
The phrase is derived from nautical terminology, specifically referring to the reaction of sailors when a strong gust of wind unexpectedly fills the sails and pushes the ship backwards (aback) into the opposite direction. Similarly, when someone is taken aback, they experience a sudden emotional or mental jolt that momentarily pushes them mentally or emotionally backward, leaving them bewildered or in a state of momentary confusion.
When individuals are "taken aback," they may display visible signs of surprise, such as widening of the eyes, a startled expression, gasping, or momentarily becoming speechless. It is a figurative expression indicating a sudden shift in a person's emotional state, often resulting from unexpected news, a shocking revelation, an unforeseen action, or an unconventional behavior.
The phrase "were taken aback" can be used to describe the collective reaction of a group of people who share a similar state of unpreparedness or shock. It implies that the individuals had not anticipated the specific situation or were caught off guard by a turn of events. However, people who are taken aback can quickly recover and regain composure after the initial surprise, adapting to the newfound circumstances or continuing the conversation with a renewed perspective.
