knock on the table

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "knock on the table" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are describing a scene or action that takes place. For example, "He was so angry he knocked on the table to emphasize his point."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Patients are required, for instance, to copy written designs, knock on the table when a specific letter of the alphabet is spoken or brake quickly on a driving simulator.

The New York Times

I knock on the table at dinner parties, alone in front of the television, whenever anything is said that could be deemed exceptionally good or bad luck, and hence curse- or jinx-inducing.

The Guardian

When you want to end the game, knock on the table.

WikiHow

Instead of taking your normal turn, anyone can knock on the table to signify that they think they'll win.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

And there are the poker signals, like knocking on the table to indicate that they are still in the game.

The New York Times

IMAGINE being able to tap anywhere on a wall to turn the lights on and off, or to change radio stations in the dining room simply by knocking on the table.

The Economist

Those who knocked on the table were no more likely to think that they would get into an accident than students who hadn't jinxed themselves in the first place.

The New York Times

What you have in cycling is a lot of people who want to get caught up in innuendo, relations, rumors, and 'He's on this, he's on that, there's something new, he's not clean, it's fake, he's no hero, what a disappointment.' " Armstrong again knocked on the table.

The New York Times - Sports

**Brad confidently knocks on the table, like a man who knows he's about the prove a point**.

TechCrunch

Knocking on the table, he says it's easier to own a business dealing with finite things.

Forbes

David knocked on the table three times.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "knock on the table" to indicate superstition, agreement in some contexts, or as a way to get attention. Consider the specific situation to ensure the phrase's connotation is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "knock on the table" when a more direct verb like "tap" or "strike" would better convey the intended action. Ensure the context supports the potential superstitious or communicative implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "knock on the table" primarily functions as a verb phrase functioning as a description of an action. As supported by Ludwig, this action can denote a physical tapping, a superstitious gesture, or a communicative signal.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "knock on the table" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase. It functions as a verb phrase and is generally used in neutral contexts, though it appears more frequently in News & Media sources. As shown by Ludwig, it can denote superstition, agreement, or a simple action to get attention. When using the phrase, be aware of its possible connotations and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning. Consider alternatives like "tap on the table" or "rap on the table" for variations in emphasis and sound. Remember to avoid using this phrase when a more direct action verb would be more accurate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tap on the table

Replaces the verb "knock" with "tap", suggesting a lighter sound or action.

rap on the table

Substitutes "knock" with "rap", implying a sharper, quicker sound.

strike the table

Uses "strike" instead of "knock", indicating a more forceful action.

drum on the table

Implies a repetitive knocking motion, creating a rhythmic sound.

thump on the table

Suggests a duller, heavier sound compared to "knock".

bang on the table

Indicates a louder, more aggressive form of knocking.

pound on the table

Similar to "bang", but conveys even greater force and intensity.

hit the table

A general term for striking the table, without specifying the manner.

thwack the table

Suggests hitting the table with a flat object, creating a sharp sound.

knock upon the table

Replaces "on" with "upon", offering a more formal or archaic tone.

FAQs

How can I use "knock on the table" in a sentence?

You can use "knock on the table" to describe a superstitious action, like "He said everything was going well, then he "knocked on the table" for good luck." It can also describe a method of communication or a signal.

What does it mean to "knock on the table"?

The phrase "knock on the table" can have several meanings. It can be a superstitious gesture, similar to knocking on wood for good luck. In some contexts, it can be a signal or a way to get someone's attention.

What can I say instead of "knock on the table"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "tap on the table", "rap on the table", or "strike the table". The best choice depends on the specific action and desired nuance.

Is "knock on wood" the same as "knock on the table"?

While "knock on wood" and "knock on the table" are often used interchangeably, "knock on wood" is more explicitly tied to the superstition of warding off bad luck. "Knock on the table" can be a more general action, although it often carries the same superstitious connotation.