balking

[baw-king]

balking Definition

• 1. to stop short and stubbornly refuse to go on
• 2. to hesitate or be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking

Using balking: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "balking" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The horse balked at the jump and refused to go over.

• Example

  He balked at the idea of getting a tattoo.

• Example

  She balked when she saw the price of the dress.

balking Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for balking

• refuse
• recoil
• resist
• shy away
• draw back

Antonyms for balking

• accept
• agree
• consent

Phrases with balking

• balk at the first fence

  to be unwilling to start something because of difficulties or obstacles

  Example

  Don't balk at the first fence, just keep going and you'll get there.

• balk at the price

  to be unwilling to pay the cost of something

  Example

  I really want that new phone, but I'm balking at the price.

• balk at the prospect

  to be unwilling to face or deal with a difficult situation

  Example

  He balked at the prospect of having to work overtime all week.

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Summary: balking in Brief

The verb 'balking' [baw-king] means to stubbornly refuse to continue or to hesitate and be unwilling to accept an idea or task. It is often used in situations where there are difficulties or obstacles, as in 'The horse balked at the jump and refused to go over.' 'Balking' can also be used in phrases like 'balk at the first fence,' meaning to be unwilling to start something because of difficulties, or 'balk at the price,' meaning to be unwilling to pay the cost of something.