knock back
The phrase "knock back" is versatile in informal English, often used to describe actions of rejection, drinking quickly, or experiencing setbacks.
Definition
B2Social
(informal)To consume a drink, especially an alcoholic one, quickly or in one go.
Example
- He knocked back a shot of whiskey without hesitation.
- They knocked back their drinks and left the bar.
B2General
(informal)To reject or refuse an offer, proposal, or request.
Example
- She knocked back his invitation to dinner.
- The company knocked back their job application.
B2General
(informal)To cause a delay or setback in progress or plans.
Example
- The unexpected expenses knocked back their vacation plans.
- His injury knocked him back for several weeks.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "knock back":
knock downknock upknock outknock underpush backknock aboutthrow backkick backknock inhit backknock offknock onknock out of the boxknock overknock togetherpull backrow backbounce backrap backdrop backput backknock it offknock the living daylights out ofbang offknock into a cocked hatsmack outshoot backbounce offkeep backkick overbrushback pitchdraw backfight backroll backsmack upback downfall backback offkick into touchpunch downback slapstrike backask backbrush backpostman's knockmove backdrop kickrear backstep backback outlash backknock knocksend backup to the knocker