TAKEN BACK Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "taken back" is an idiomatic expression that can have multiple meanings depending on the context.
One possible meaning is to feel surprised or shocked by something unexpected. In this sense, being "taken back" implies being caught off guard or astonished by an event or statement. It implies a temporary loss of composure or speechlessness due to surprise. For example, if someone receives a meaningful and unexpected gift, they might be "taken back" by the generosity and be momentarily speechless.
Another meaning of "taken back" is to have something returned to its original location or owner. This can refer to reclaiming possession of an item that was previously borrowed or misplaced. When something is taken back, it signifies a reversal of ownership or custody. For instance, if someone lends a book to a friend and asks for it to be "taken back" when it is no longer needed, they are requesting its return.
Additionally, "taken back" can mean to retract or withdraw a statement or action. It implies regret or reconsideration, acknowledging that the initial action or comment was inappropriate or incorrect. This usage signifies the act of going back on one's words or actions. For example, if someone realizes they made a false accusation and publicly apologizes, they are "taking back" their original claim.
In summary, "taken back" can refer to being surprised, reclaiming ownership or possession, or retracting a statement or action. The specific meaning can be determined by the context in which the phrase is used.
Common Misspellings for TAKEN BACK
- raken back
- faken back
- gaken back
- yaken back
- 6aken back
- 5aken back
- tzken back
- tsken back
- twken back
- tqken back
- tajen back
- tamen back
- talen back
- taoen back
- taien back
- takwn back
- taksn back
- takdn back
- takrn back
- tak4n back
Etymology of TAKEN BACK
The phrase "taken back" is a combination of the verb "take" and the adverb "back".
The verb "take" originated from the Old English word "tacan", which meant "to get possession of". It derived from the Proto-Germanic word "takanan" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*deh₃-", meaning "to take, to give". The word "take" has remained relatively consistent in its meaning throughout its development.
The adverb "back" also has Old English roots. It came from the word "bæc", which meant "back, behind, or backwards". This Old English word corresponds to the Proto-Germanic word "bakam" and shares an ancestor with various other Germanic languages.
When these two words are combined, "taken back" refers to the act of retrieving or regaining something that was previously possessed or lost.
