What are the definitions of “knock around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Discuss casually.
We KNOCKED the idea AROUND a bit, but decided not to bother.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “knock around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb knock around is to discuss an idea or topic casually, without going into too much detail or making any serious decisions. It is often used when people are brainstorming or sharing thoughts on a subject.
What are the different verb forms of “knock around”?
| Root Verb | knock around |
| Third Person Singular Present | knocks around |
| Present Participle | knocking around |
| Simple Past | knocked around |
| Past Participle | knocked around |
Example
We knocked around some ideas for the new project.
Example
She knocks around different topics with her friends during lunch.
Example
They are knocking around various suggestions for the upcoming event.
Example
Yesterday, we knocked around a few concepts for the marketing campaign.
Example
Several ideas have been knocked around during the brainstorming session.
What kind of phrasal verb is “knock around”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“knock around” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
We knocked around the idea of a weekend trip.
Example
They knocked around different themes for the party.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“knock around” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
We knocked around the idea of a weekend trip.
Example
They knocked around different themes for the party.
Good things to know
Does “knock around” have an informal or formal tone?
Knock around is an informal phrasal verb that is typically used in casual conversations. It is not commonly used in formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, synonyms such as 'discuss' or 'consider' may be more appropriate.
