The phrase "knocked chip off one shoulder" means to provoke or challenge someone. The correct spelling is "knocked the chip off one's shoulder." The /k/ sound is represented by the letter "k," while the /n/ sound is represented by the letter "n." The /ɒ/ sound in "knocked" is represented by the letter "o," and the /ɪ/ sound in "chip" is represented by the letters "i." The /ɔː/ sound in "off" is represented by the letters "o" and "ff," and the /ə/ sound in "one" is represented by the letter "e." The /ʃ/ sound in "shoulder" is represented by the letters "sh."
To "knock a chip off one's shoulder" is a colloquialism that refers to an action or statement intended to provoke or challenge someone who is perceived as being confrontational, aggressive, or excessively self-assured. The phrase originates from a metaphorical scenario where an individual carries a figurative "chip" on their shoulder, symbolizing their readiness to engage in a conflict or their desire to assert their pride or superiority.
When someone metaphorically "knocks a chip off one's shoulder," they are essentially challenging the antagonistic individual and attempting to deflate their sense of arrogance or defiance. This provocation can be in the form of a comment, action, or even the demonstration of a skill or achievement that undermines the self-assured disposition of the person involved.
The phrase usually denotes an assertive or direct approach aimed at confronting the individual and forcing them to abandon their aggressive stance. It can be used to neutralize a potential conflict by, essentially, "knocking down" the perceived challenge or minimizing the perceived superiority that the person with the chip on their shoulder exudes.
Overall, "knocking a chip off one's shoulder" entails a deliberate action or remark that challenges an individual's provocation, aiming to diminish their sense of self-importance, confrontational attitude, or perceived superiority.