take from behind
C1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To grab or attack someone from the back so they can't see you coming.
Literal meaning: To take hold of something from a position behind it.
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To physically grab, restrain, or attack someone approaching from the rear.
"The security guard managed to take the suspect from behind before he could escape through the door."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral
In sports or competition, to overtake or defeat a competitor by coming up from behind.
"The defending champions were taken from behind in the final quarter when the opposing team scored three goals."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Used in military, sports, and tactical contexts. Can describe a physical assault from the rear or, in chess and strategy games, a flanking maneuver. Less commonly used in everyday speech.
Commonly used with
enemy defender position attacker opponent
Forms
Base
take from behind
I/you/we/they
3rd person
takes from behind
he/she/it
Past simple
took from behind
yesterday
Past participle
taken from behind
have + pp
-ing form
taking from behind
continuous
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Synonyms
ambush from the rear attack from behind blindside flank sneak up on
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