3K

Knock-on

UK //nɒk ɒn// US //nɑk ɑn// Pronunciation

Definition

An indirect effect or consequence of an action.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A result or effect from an action.

Examples

• The new law had a significant knock-on effect on the economy.
• The team's loss had a knock-on effect on their confidence.
• Traffic delays can create a knock-on effect throughout the city.
• The decision to cut funding had a serious knock-on effect on the project.
• There was a knock-on effect on the community due to the factory closing.

Usage notes

Often used in discussions about consequences or effects of actions. Suitable for both spoken and written contexts.

Grammar pattern

knock-on + noun

Memory hint

Think of a domino effect; one knock causes many more to fall.

Collocations

• knock-on effect
• knock-on consequences
• knock-on impact

Synonyms

• consequence
• effect
• result
• repercussion
• impact

Common mistakes

• Using 'knock-on' without a noun afterwards.
• Confusing it with similar phrases like 'knock-off'.