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Aback

usgb/əˈbæk/Volume
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LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Events

Use 'aback' when something happens that is so surprising it makes someone temporarily confused or bewildered.

Illustration for Unexpected Events
The sudden resignation of the manager took everyone aback.
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Emotional Impact

Conveys a strong emotional response, usually related to surprise or shock, not just a casual reaction.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
I was taken aback by the sheer number of people at the rally.
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Negative Surprise

Often implies a negative connotation, suggesting the surprise is not pleasant or welcome.

Illustration for Negative Surprise
She was taken aback when she found out she was being laid off.
Word comparison image

Compare with

AstonishBewilderDumbfoundedFlabbergastedNonplussedStartleSurpriseThunderstruck
Visual representation of the word "Aback"

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