What is another word for take unawares?
Pronunciation: [tˈe͡ɪk ˌʌnəwˈe͡əz] (IPA) 
The phrase "take unawares" is often used to describe the act of surprising someone. There are several synonyms that convey a similar meaning, such as catch off guard, ambush, startle, surprise, and shock. Each of these synonyms describes the unexpected nature of the event and the fact that the person was not prepared for it. When you catch someone off guard, you take them by surprise and they may not know how to react. Ambushing someone involves attacking them unexpectedly from a hidden position. Starting someone means to cause them to suddenly jump or become frightened. All of these phrases describe an unexpected and surprising event that the person was not prepared for.
