it stops kicking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it stops kicking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts where you are describing something that ceases to be active or functioning, often metaphorically. Example: "After several attempts to revive the old engine, I realized it stops kicking and needs to be replaced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Then you wait until it stops kicking.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Then I was alone again and I stopped kicking him.

The New Yorker

I was wiped, so I stopped kicking off.

Vice

The boy stops kicking his heels against the trolley.

Vice

MRSA is a serious matter, so Labour should stop kicking it about like a political football to make it look like they are doing better than they actually are".

Independent

The first day of spring, and this place had it in a choke hold, waiting for its legs to stop kicking.

The New Yorker

The 201 House conservatives who voted against raising the debt limit on Tuesday offered a familiar rationale: "It's time to stop kicking the can down the road".

The Guardian - Opinion

Perhaps it's time to stop kicking the can down the road and start listening to the common sense of the American people.

Huffington Post

It is time for political parties to stop kicking the can down the road and to commit to a referendum in 2016.

The Guardian

Addressed to kids, it might serve as a strong hint to stop kicking your sister under the table.

Forbes

The Kremlin's hand has been clamped over Yukos' mouth for so long, it's a wonder the company didn't stop kicking long ago.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it stops kicking", consider the context. Is it literal (an animal) or figurative (a plan)? Ensure the imagery aligns with your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "it stops kicking" in contexts where a more direct and less visceral phrase would be more appropriate. Overusing it can lead to melodramatic writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it stops kicking" primarily functions as a clause within a sentence, often serving as the predicate. It describes the cessation of a specific action (kicking) performed by a subject ("it"). Ludwig's examples show both literal and figurative applications of this function.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it stops kicking" is a versatile expression used to denote the cessation of movement or activity, applicable both literally and figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English writing. While the phrase is commonly found in news and media contexts, careful consideration should be given to the tone and register to ensure it aligns with the overall writing style. When you are considering alternatives, options such as "it ceases movement" or "it becomes still" may provide a more formal alternative, while still maintaining a similar semantic core.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it ceases movement

Focuses on the literal absence of motion rather than a specific action like kicking.

it becomes still

Emphasizes the lack of movement and a state of quietude.

it is no longer active

Highlights the end of a period of activity or operation.

it halts its thrashing

Specifically addresses a violent or uncontrolled movement stopping.

it desists from struggling

Implies a deliberate or forced end to resistance or effort.

it gives up the fight

Figurative language implying the end of a struggle or opposition.

it expires

A more dramatic term implying the end of life or functionality.

it shuts down

Suggests a mechanical or automated cessation of function.

it winds down

Conveys a gradual reduction in activity before stopping completely.

it becomes immobile

Highlights the resulting state of being unable to move.

FAQs

How can I use "it stops kicking" in a sentence?

You can use "it stops kicking" to describe the end of an activity, either literally or figuratively. For example, "The old engine coughed a few times, then "it stops kicking"."

What does "it stops kicking" mean in a figurative sense?

Figuratively, "it stops kicking" can mean that something has given up, failed, or come to an end. It implies a struggle or resistance that has ceased.

What can I say instead of "it stops kicking"?

You can use alternatives like "it ceases movement", "it becomes still", or "it is no longer active" depending on the context.

Is "it stops kicking" a formal or informal expression?

"It stops kicking" leans towards the informal side due to its somewhat graphic nature. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "it ceases to function" or "it becomes inactive".