The phrase "taken by surprise" refers to being caught off guard or unexpectedly. The word "taken" is pronounced as /ˈteɪkən/ with a long A sound and the stress on the first syllable. "By" is pronounced as /baɪ/ with a long I sound. Finally, "surprise" is pronounced as /sərˈpraɪz/ with the stress on the second syllable and a long I sound. While the spelling of this phrase may seem straightforward, careful attention to the correct pronunciation is important to accurately convey the intended meaning.
"Taken by surprise" is an idiom that describes an individual's reaction or state when they are unexpectedly presented with something or caught off guard by a sudden event, circumstance, or situation. It implies that the person was unprepared or unaware of the occurrence and thus finds themselves in a state of astonishment, disbelief, or shock due to the element of surprise.
This expression signifies an instantaneous emotional or mental response when someone encounters a situation they did not anticipate. It suggests that the person was not forewarned, did not foresee the event, or did not expect the outcome. As a result, they may react with bewilderment, confusion, or a mix of emotions such as joy, fear, excitement, or even disappointment, depending on the nature of the surprise.
The phrase "taken by surprise" encapsulates the sense of being caught off guard or unprepared, emphasizing the suddenness or unexpectedness of the event. It evokes a feeling of being figuratively overtaken or seized, often leaving the person momentarily disoriented or uncertain about their next course of action. The element of surprise disrupts their anticipated or routine state, forcing them to reassess, adapt, or react swiftly in order to regain composure or respond appropriately to the situation at hand.