Differences between fall off and knock off
Fall off means to drop or decrease in quantity, quality, or intensity. It can also mean to accidentally come off from a surface or object. Knock off means to stop doing something, to finish work, or to cause something to fall off by hitting it.
Meanings and Definitions: fall off vs knock off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Fall off
- 1Decrease.
The membership FELL OFF dramatically when the chairperson resigned.
Knock off
- 1Finish work for the day.
We KNOCKED OFF early on Friday to avoid the rush hour queues.
- 2Reduce the price of something.
They KNOCKED ten pounds OFF when I asked for a discount.
- 3Reduce the time required to do something.
The new road KNOCKS an hour OFF the journey.
- 4Steal.
He KNOCKED it OFF and sold it.
- 5Produce or create something quickly.
I KNOCKED the essay OFF in an hour.
Usage Examples: fall off, knock off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
fall off
Example
The number of visitors to the park falls off during the winter months.
Example
The temperature falls off quickly after the sun sets.
knock off
Example
I can't wait to knock off and start my weekend.
Example
She knocks off work at 5 pm every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fall off
decline
To decrease in quantity, quality, or intensity.
Example
Sales declined after the company changed its marketing strategy.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Knock off
wrap up
To finish or complete something.
Example
Let's wrap up this meeting and make a decision.
To stop doing something, especially something that is illegal or harmful.
Example
The government ordered the factory to cease its operations due to environmental concerns.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “fall”
Phrasal Verbs with “knock”
Differences in fall off vs knock off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: fall off or knock off?
In everyday conversation, knock off is more common than fall off. This is because knock off is used in various contexts such as work, sports, and crime. Fall off is less common and mainly used to describe a decrease in quantity or quality.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fall off and knock off
Fall off and knock off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, knock off can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts to mean 'to finish work'.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fall off and knock off
The tone of fall off and knock off can differ based on context. Fall off often carries a negative or disappointing tone when referring to a decrease in quality or quantity. Knock off typically has a neutral or positive tone when referring to finishing work or stopping an activity.
