"Given the deuce" is an expression that signifies frustration, disappointment or surprise. It is closely associated with card games and refers to receiving the number two card. There are various synonyms for this phrase, depending on the context of the situation. Examples include: 'thrown off-guard', 'taken aback', 'startled', 'thrown for a loop', 'taken by surprise', 'thrown a curveball', 'shocked' and 'jolted'. These phrases are useful in different scenarios, and they can help to convey the emotional state of the speaker more effectively. Therefore, it is essential to know the different synonyms for "given the deuce" to express oneself more eloquently.