# knock around

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/knock-around
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to move something in a rough or uncontrolled way — often used when describing how an object is handled carelessly.

For teachers: to move an object with force and lack of precision; transitive verb, typically used in informal contexts; can also mean to spend time with friends in a casual manner (less common).

## Examples

- He knocked the ball around the room.
- The child knocked the toy around the floor, making a mess.
- The artist knocked the clay around the table, shaping it into a rough sculpture.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He knocked around." but "He knocked the ball around." — the phrasal verb requires an object; 'knock around' alone is incomplete and grammatically incorrect.

## Usage notes

- Typically followed by an object being moved.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'move' (more general) and 'toss' (more forceful); learners may confuse it with 'knock about' (British English for 'hang out').

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.