knock over
Definition
Verb (transitive): - To cause something to fall from an upright position, typically by striking or colliding with it: The action of hitting or pushing something so that it tips and falls onto its side or onto the ground.
Usage
This verb is used to describe an accidental or deliberate action that results in an object being overturned. It often implies a lack of stability in the object or a clumsy, forceful, or unexpected contact.
Examples
- (The cat caused the vase to fall from its upright position.)
- (A cyclist hit the sign, making it fall down.)
- (Be careful not to cause that glass to tip and spill.)
Advanced Usage
- Figurative/Colloquial Use: In informal contexts, "knock over" can mean to rob or steal from a place, especially using force.
- The thieves planned to knock over the jewelry store.
- To overwhelm or astonish someone (less common): To surprise or shock someone greatly.
- The news of her promotion really knocked her over.
Variants and Related Words
- Overturn (verb): To cause to turn over; to invalidate or reverse. (More formal)
- Upset (verb): To knock something over; to disturb emotionally.
- Tip over (phrasal verb): Very similar in meaning to "knock over," often used interchangeably.
- Topple (verb): To become unsteady and fall over; to overthrow.
Synonyms
- Overturn
- Upset
- Tip over
- Topple
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Knock down: To cause something to fall to the ground, often by hitting it with great force (can imply destruction or demolition).
- The storm knocked down several trees.
- Run over: To hit with a vehicle and pass over, causing injury or damage.
- The car almost ran over the bicycle.
Related Idioms
- Knock 'em dead: An idiom meaning to impress someone greatly (not related to the physical act of knocking over).
- Knock it off: An idiom meaning to stop doing something annoying.
Verb
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cause to overturn from an upright or normal position
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The cat knocked over the flower vase
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the clumsy customer turned over the vase
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he tumped over his beer
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