take by surprise
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He would have opened the door suddenly in that case, hoping to take by surprise whosoever of the clan were guarding Linda.
From The Strength of the Pines by Marshall, Edison
Mr. Elster walked slowly through the village on his way to Hartledon, whose inmates he would presently take by surprise.
From Elster's Folly by Wood, Henry, Mrs.
Finally the rebels retreated, and Michelson discovered that his opponents meant to take by surprise the Fort of Ufa.
From Stories by Foreign Authors: Polish, Greek, Belgian, Hungarian by Sienkiewicz, Henryk
It could now be seen that those who handled the oars were trying to make less noise, as though desirous of not arousing the sleepers they expected to take by surprise.
From Motor Boat Boys Mississippi Cruise or, The Dash for Dixie by Arundel, Louis
One day he will suddenly start off to take by surprise the garrisons of Potsdam and of Rinfueld; he gives the order for boots and saddles, which naturally leads to innumerable accidents.
From The Schemes of the Kaiser by Adam, Juliette
