Differences between knock down and pull down
Knock down and pull down both mean to demolish or destroy a building or structure, but knock down can also mean to hit someone or something with force.
Meanings and Definitions: knock down vs pull down
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.
Pull down
- 1Demolish.
They PULLED the old cinema DOWN to build a new shopping mall.
- 2Make someone depressed.
Losing her job PULLED her DOWN.
- 3Earn.
He's PULLING DOWN a fortune.
Usage Examples: knock down, pull down 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.
pull down
Example
The city decided to pull down the abandoned factory.
Example
She pulls down the old posters from her wall.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Knock down
bring down
To cause the downfall or defeat of someone or something.
Example
The new evidence helped bring down the corrupt politician.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pull down
bring down
To cause the downfall or defeat of someone or something.
Example
The new evidence helped bring down the corrupt politician.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “knock”
Phrasal Verbs with “pull”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in knock down vs pull down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: knock down or pull down?
Both knock down and pull down are commonly used in everyday conversation, but pull down is slightly more common in British English. In American English, knock down is more frequently used.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of knock down and pull down
Both knock down and pull down are informal phrases used in casual conversations. They are not suitable for formal settings like business or academic contexts. In such situations, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of knock down and pull down
The tone of knock down and pull down can differ based on context. Knock down often carries a violent or aggressive tone when referring to hitting someone or something, while pull down typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to demolishing a building or structure.
