Taken _____, or caught off-guard

adverb

1. Backward, back
2. In a position to catch the wind upon the forward surface (as of a sail)
3. By surprise unawares

   "was taken aback by her sharp retort"

phrasal verb

1. To surprise or shock (someone)

verb

1. To wound or pierce by the thrust of a pointed object or weapon
2. Thrust, drive
3. To thrust or give a wound with or as if with a pointed weapon

idiomatic phrase

1. To have or assume a secondary position or status to be or become less important, active, or powerful

   "Howard loved directing “more than I even thought I would,” and his acting career has taken a back seat ever since."

idiom

1. A problem that someone cannot easily get rid of or solve a problem or situation that makes someone unhappy and that lasts for a long time

   "His drug addiction has been a monkey on his back for years."

noun phrase

1. A show of praise or approval

   "You all deserve a pat on the back for making this possible."

noun phrase

1. The act of slapping someone's back usually to express praise or approval

   "He gave me a slap on the back and said "Good job!""

idiom

1. Having no effect on someone

   "He tried to convince her to take the job, but his advice was like water off a duck's back."