The phrase "knocking back" is commonly used in casual conversation and refers to consuming alcoholic beverages. It is spelled /ˈnɒkɪŋ bæk/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "k" sound at the beginning of "knocking" is silent, and the "ck" combination represents a single sound. The "o" sound is pronounced as in "not," and the stress falls on the first syllable. The "i" in "back" is pronounced as in "sit," and the stress falls on the second syllable.
"Knocking back" is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings depending on the context it is used in. In general terms, it refers to the action of pushing or striking something or someone backwards, usually with force.
In a literal sense, it can describe a physical movement where someone forcefully strikes an object or a person, causing them to move or fall backward. For instance, if a person accidentally bumps into a bookshelf, they might knock back some books or even cause the entire shelf to topple over.
Metaphorically, "knocking back" can describe the act of rejecting or dismissing something, usually an idea, suggestion, or offer. This can occur in various situations, such as during a negotiation where one party knocks back a proposed deal, or in a work setting when a manager knocks back an employee's request for time off.
Furthermore, "knocking back" can also relate to the consumption of alcoholic beverages or drugs. In this context, it refers to the act of quickly drinking or ingesting a significant amount of alcohol or substances. For example, if someone is at a party and they start knocking back shots one after another, it indicates a rapid and excessive intake of alcohol.
Overall, "knocking back" encompasses the actions of forcibly pushing or striking something or someone, dismissing ideas or offers, and consuming alcohol or substances in a rapid and excessive manner. Its precise meaning relies on the specific context in which it is used.
The phrase "knocking back" is an idiomatic expression used to refer to consuming a drink quickly or in large quantities. The etymology of this phrase can be traced back to the verb "knock", which originally meant to strike or hit with force. This verb was also used in the context of "knocking back" a drink, which metaphorically conveyed the idea of forcefully drinking it. Over time, this expression became a common colloquialism to describe the act of quickly downing a beverage.