Multiple choice softskills communication

The phrase 'taken aback' derived from

  1. Surprise at being stabbed in the back

  2. Nautical language

  3. Being led backwards in a blindfold

  4. None of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The phrase 'taken aback' comes from nautical terminology. When a ship changes direction suddenly and the wind presses the sails against the mast, the vessel is 'taken aback' - caught off guard and unable to move forward. This term later entered general English to mean surprised or startled.

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