KNOCK ON Meaning and
Definition
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"Knock on" is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings and uses depending on the context. The term typically implies striking a surface or object using knuckles or a similar blunt force. In its most literal sense, "knock on" refers to the action of tapping or rapping the surface of a door or gate in order to gain someone's attention or seek admittance.
In a figurative sense, "knock on" can also denote testing or checking something for soundness, quality, or durability. For instance, this can involve assessing the strength of a wooden piece by tapping on it to determine if it is sturdy. Furthermore, "knock on" can refer to an act of hoping for good luck or success, often used in phrases such as "Keep your fingers crossed and knock on wood." Here, the action of knocking on a wooden surface is believed to ward off bad luck or prevent a positive outcome from being jinxed.
Additionally, "knock on" is used idiomatically to describe the act of approaching or soliciting someone for a specific purpose. It can imply seeking someone's support, approval, or participation in a particular endeavor. In sports, "knock on" can also refer to an accidental forward pass of the ball in rugby or Australian rules football, resulting in a turnover.
In summary, "knock on" encompasses the actions of tapping or striking a surface to gain attention or assess quality, as well as the idiomatic uses related to seeking support or hoping for good luck.
Common Misspellings for KNOCK ON
- jnock on
- mnock on
- lnock on
- onock on
- inock on
- kbock on
- kmock on
- kjock on
- khock on
- knick on
- knkck on
- knlck on
- knpck on
- kn0ck on
- kn9ck on
- knoxk on
- knovk on
- knofk on
- knodk on
Etymology of KNOCK ON
The phrase "knock on" is a combination of two words: "knock" and "on". Here is the etymology of each word:
1. Knock: The word "knock" dates back to Middle English and is derived from the Old English word "cnocian". It has Germanic origins and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Middle Dutch "knocken" and Old Norse "knoka". The exact etymology before Old English is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from a Proto-Germanic root word.
2. On: The word "on" is a preposition and adverb in English that can indicate various relationships. It comes from Old English "on", which has Germanic origins and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages. The Proto-Germanic root is *ana, meaning "on, at".
Idioms with the word KNOCK ON
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knock on something
The idiom "knock on something" means to express hope for continued good fortune or success by touching or tapping on a solid object, usually wood, as a superstitious gesture to ward off bad luck or prevent jinxing a situation.
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knock on wood, at touch wood
The idiom "knock on wood" (also known as "touch wood") is used when speaking about a positive outcome or expressing a hope for good luck, usually followed by the literal action of touching or knocking on a wooden object. It is believed to be a superstitious practice dating back to ancient times when it was believed that certain spirits or gods resided in trees. By touching or knocking on wood, people hoped to invoke the protection or favor of those spirits and avoid tempting fate. Today, it is often used as a light-hearted way to ward off bad luck or jinxes.
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knock on (one's) door
The idiom "knock on (one's) door" typically means to approach or make contact with someone in an attempt to gain their attention, seek their help or advice, or ask for a favor. It implies seeking access to someone's resources or expertise by figuratively "knocking on their door" to ask for their assistance or involvement.
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knock on the door
The idiom "knock on the door" refers to seeking an opportunity or trying to gain entry to a particular situation, often with hopes of success or acceptance. It implies taking action or making an attempt to achieve a desired outcome.
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knock on the head
The idiom "knock on the head" is typically used to mean stopping something or putting an end to it, often abruptly or decisively. It can refer to stopping or discrediting an idea, plan, or proposal that is considered unlikely or unrealistic. It can also indicate the act of putting a stop to an activity or behavior that is deemed inappropriate, unproductive, or harmful.
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knock on wood (touch wood)
The idiom "knock on wood" or "touch wood" is used as a superstitious gesture to prevent bad luck, misfortune, or jinxing something. It is typically done by physically touching or lightly knocking on a wooden object while expressing a hope or making a positive statement. The act is meant to ward off any potential negative outcomes and maintain good luck.
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knock on sth
The idiom "knock on something" typically refers to physically hitting or striking a surface, such as a door or a table, with one's knuckles or knuckles of the hand. It is commonly used as a means to get someone's attention, announce one's presence, or request entry.
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knock on
The idiom "knock on" refers to making a brief visit to someone's house or place of work in order to have a quick conversation or discussion. It can also be used more generally to mean approaching someone in order to ask a question or seek help.
Similar spelling words for KNOCK ON
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