take/have a knock idiom Meaning
Idiom: Take/Have a Knock
Definition:
The idiom “take/have a knock” refers to experiencing a negative event or setback, especially one that affects one’s health, confidence, or reputation. It can also imply receiving criticism or a minor injury.
Usage:
This idiomatic expression is often used in informal contexts. For instance, one might say, “After the tough meeting, I feel like I’ve taken a knock,” suggesting that the meeting was difficult or that they received some disheartening news.
Etymology:
The phrase derives from the physical act of knocking, which implies a sudden impact or jolt. Its figurative use evolved in English to convey metaphorical ‘knocks’ one might take in life, which can include emotional or psychological impacts, not just physical.
Pronunciation:
/teɪk/ /hæv/ /ə/ /nɒk/
Synonyms:
- Suffer a setback
- Experience a blow
- Receive criticism
- Take a hit
Antonyms:
- Thrive
- Flourish
- Succeed
- Be praised
Example Sentences:
- “After a series of rejections, I really felt like I’d taken a knock to my self-esteem.”
- “Despite taking a knock in the last competition, she’s determined to come back stronger.”
Overall, “take/have a knock” conveys the idea of facing adversity, whether it be physical, emotional, or reputational.
- After the team lost their star player to injury, their chances of winning the championship really took a knock.
- His confidence took a knock when he failed the exam despite studying for weeks.
- The company’s stock price took a knock after the unfavorable earnings report was released.
- My plans for the weekend took a knock when I came down with a cold.
- The relationship took a knock after the argument, but they were able to reconcile later.
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