Knock back

Pro Tip 1/3

Use when someone turns down an opportunity or offer, often in a professional setting.

Despite our best efforts, the client knocked back our proposal.

Pro Tip 2/3

Understand the disappointment that comes when something is knocked back, like a job application.

It stung a little when they knocked back my idea during the meeting.

Pro Tip 3/3

Sometimes, 'knock back' can mean a temporary refusal that may be reconsidered later.

They knocked back the offer, but they said they might revisit it next quarter.