Translation guide
Expresses surprise, shock, or being momentarily stunned by something unexpected. Japanese uses various verbs and phrases depending on the nuance—from mild surprise to being completely floored.
Reacting to something unexpected with surprise, often momentarily speechless or wide-eyed.
General verb for 'be surprised'. Covers a wide range of surprise, including being taken aback. Often used with adverbs like ちょっと (a little) or かなり (quite).
I was taken aback by his sudden confession.
Casual, common way to say 'be surprised' or 'startled'. Often used for sudden, unexpected events.
I was taken aback when I saw the price.
To be dumbfounded or stunned, often with a nuance of being so surprised you can't react immediately.
I was taken aback by the sight.
Reacting to something so unexpected or shocking that it leaves you reeling or deeply affected.
To receive a shock; implies a strong emotional impact. Suitable for news or events that deeply surprise or disturb.
I was taken aback by the news.
Idiomatic: 'to have the liver pulled out' → to be utterly astonished or flabbergasted. Stronger and more colorful than 驚く.
Literally 'to have one's back give out' → to be so surprised one cannot stand. Very strong, often used for extreme shock or fear.
Reacting with surprise or dismay to someone's unexpected behavior, rudeness, or bluntness.
To be at a loss for words. Often used when someone says something shocking or outrageous.
I was taken aback by his rude remark and was at a loss for words.
To be bewildered or taken aback, often by someone's unexpected action or question. Slightly colloquial.
Startled or surprised by something happening abruptly, like a person appearing or a loud noise.
To be startled or taken aback, often with a physical reaction like flinching. Used for sudden, surprising stimuli.
I was taken aback when someone tapped me on the shoulder from behind.
To be taken aback or to suddenly realize something. Often implies a sudden mental jolt rather than physical startle.
I was taken aback by his words.
Both mean 'be surprised', but びっくりする is more casual and often implies a sudden, momentary surprise. 驚く can be used in both casual and formal contexts and covers a wider range of surprise intensity.
There is no direct Japanese equivalent of the English phrase 'be taken aback'. Using a literal translation like 後ろに取られる would be nonsensical. Always use one of the expressions above based on the nuance.
I was completely taken aback by his bold move.
I was taken aback by the sudden loud noise.
I was taken aback when someone suddenly called my name.