knock down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "knock down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that has been knocked over or pushed over, such as a wall, building, or person. Example: The driver knocked down a small tree as he sped around the corner.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"He can knock down shots.

The New York Times

You had to knock down walls.

The Guardian

But meanwhile, the killers knock down 100.

The New York Times

Being able to knock down walls.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"People tend to knock down and replicate".

The New York Times

"They'll knock down lampposts or burn trees".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

RNAi experiment was performed to knock-down dPANK protein.

EMBO Molecular Medicine

p62 knock-down extends lkb1 mutants' survival.

Nature

Presumptive knock-down was monitored by real time PCR.

Experimental Parasitology

Finally, improved knock-down factors are deduced and discussed.

Composite Structures

Knock-down of hnRNPH1 caused variable effects.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "knock down" in writing, ensure the context is clear. It can refer to physical actions like demolishing a building or metaphorical actions like reducing a price. Choose the usage that best fits the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "knock down" when a more precise verb would be clearer. For instance, instead of "The criticism knocked down his confidence", consider "The criticism undermined his confidence" for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "knock down" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It combines the verb "knock" with the particle "down" to create a new meaning, as exemplified in Ludwig where it's used to describe both physical actions (like knocking down a wall) and metaphorical actions (like knocking down prices).

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "knock down" is a versatile expression with several meanings, ranging from causing something to fall to reducing prices. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, though being mindful of the specific intended meaning is crucial for clarity. Common usages include physically knocking something over, demolishing structures, and reducing prices. To avoid confusion, consider using more precise verbs when a metaphorical meaning is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

knock over

Similar to "knock down", but often used for smaller objects.

demolish

Focuses specifically on the destruction of a building or structure.

topple

Suggests causing something to fall over, often something tall or unstable.

push over

Emphasizes the act of pushing something until it falls.

flatten

Implies making something level or destroying it completely.

bring down

A more general term for causing something to fall or be defeated.

overthrow

Refers to the forceful removal of a government or leader.

reduce the price

Focuses on lowering the cost of something.

drink quickly

Specifically means to consume a beverage rapidly.

disassemble

Implies taking something apart, often for transport or storage.

FAQs

How can I use "knock down" in a sentence?

You can use "knock down" in several ways. For example, "The storm knocked down the trees", or "The store knocked down prices for the sale".

What does "knock down" mean?

"Knock down" can mean to cause something to fall, to demolish, to reduce a price, or to drink something quickly. The meaning depends on the context.

What can I say instead of "knock down"?

Alternatives include "demolish", "reduce", "topple", or "drink quickly", depending on the intended meaning.

Is "knock down" formal or informal?

"Knock down" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional settings.