set (one) aback

set (one) aback

To startle, astonish, shock, or disconcert one. (A less common variant of "take one aback.") It set us all aback a bit to learn that John was moving to England next month. I'm sure the news sets everyone aback, but please believe me that this is in the best interest of the company.
See also: aback, set
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • take (one) aback
  • take aback
  • take someone aback
  • taken aback
  • aback
  • be set aback
  • be taken aback
  • surprise (one) by (doing) (something)
  • surprise by
  • surprise with