A2verb1K

Knock

UK /["/nɒk/","/nɒks/","/nɒkt/","/ˈnɒkɪŋ/"]/US /["/nɑːk/","/nɑːks/","/nɑːkt/","/ˈnɑːkɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to hit a door, etc. in order to attract attention

In simple words: To hit something, usually a door, to get attention.

Examples

  • I heard a knock at the door.
  • Please knock before entering my room.
  • He used his cane to knock on the ground.
  • It's not polite to knock someone's ideas without considering them.
  • The teacher will knock on the board to get everyone's attention.
  • She always tries to knock me down when I succeed.
  • The thunder caused a knock that startled everyone.
  • He didn't knock hard enough for her to hear it.

Usage notes

Commonly used when asking someone to get attention before entering. Can be informal if used in a light-hearted context, but avoid in very formal situations.

Grammar pattern

knock + object (e.g., 'knock the door')

Memory hint

Think of a 'knock-knock' joke — that's how knocking sounds!

Collocations

  • loudly
  • gently
  • lightly
  • at
  • on
  • without knocking
  • accidentally
  • against
  • off
  • on
  • knock somebody/​something flying
  • knock somebody off balance
  • knock somebody off their feet
  • accidentally
  • against
  • off
  • on
  • knock somebody/​something flying
  • knock somebody off balance
  • knock somebody off their feet
  • accidentally
  • against
  • off
  • on
  • knock somebody/​something flying
  • knock somebody off balance
  • knock somebody off their feet

Synonyms

  • rap

Antonyms

  • open
  • shut

Common mistakes

  • Saying 'knock on' instead of just 'knock'
  • Confusing 'knock' with 'hit' when referring to knocking on a door
  • Using the wrong preposition, e.g., saying 'knock at the door' instead of 'knock on the door'