take somebody by surprise

take (one) by surprise

To encounter or otherwise engage something or someone who is not prepared or on guard; to shock or startle someone or something by one's sudden appearance or action. You took me by surprise when you showed up at my office with flowers this afternoon! Our soldiers descended upon the enemy encampment just before daybreak and took their troops entirely by surprise.

See also: by, surprise, take

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

take somebody by surˈprise

happen to somebody unexpectedly; surprise somebody: His decision to retire took us all by surprise.

See also: by, somebody, surprise, take

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017