Differences between knock down and knock off
Knock down usually means to cause something to fall or to demolish a structure, whereas knock off generally means to stop working or to finish a task.
Meanings and Definitions: knock down vs knock off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Knock down
- 1Demolish.
They KNOCKED DOWN the old church and built a block of flats in its place.
- 2Hit and injure someone.
The car KNOCKED her DOWN and she broke her arm.
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: knock down, knock off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
knock down
Example
The construction crew will knock down the old building.
Example
He knocks down the old fence to make room for a new one.
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 Knock down
To destroy or tear down a building or structure.
Example
The city council decided to demolish the old factory to make way for a new park.
To level or make something completely flat.
Example
The bulldozer was able to flatten the entire field in just a few hours.
bring down
To cause something to fall or collapse.
Example
The strong winds were able to bring down several trees in the park.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Knock off
finish up
To complete or conclude a task or activity.
Example
Let's finish up this project before the deadline.
wrap up
To complete or finish something.
Example
I need to wrap up this meeting so I can catch my flight.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “knock”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- settle down
- die down
- pour down
- move down
- swear down
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in knock down vs knock off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: knock down or knock off?
In daily conversation, people use knock off more often than knock down. This is because knock off is used for more common tasks such as finishing work or stopping an activity. Knock down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about demolishing something. So, while both phrases are used, knock off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of knock down and knock off
Knock down and knock off are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of knock down and knock off
The tone of knock down and knock off can differ based on context. Knock down often carries a forceful or destructive tone when related to demolishing or destroying something, while knock off typically has a relaxed and casual tone, especially when referring to finishing work or tasks.
