Knock/talk some sense into somebody

usgb
phrase

To try and make someone understand or believe something that they previously did not.

I tried to knock some sense into my friend about the dangers of texting while driving.
Visual representation of "knock/talk some sense into somebody" - To try and make someone understand or believe something that they previously did not

Often appears as...

  • knock some sense into you
  • knock some sense into him

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "knock/talk some sense into somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Serious Effort

Used when someone sincerely tries to change another's misguided belief or behavior.

Illustration for Serious Effort
After seeing his poor grades, his parents tried to knock some sense into him.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

It can imply the person is being stubborn or foolish before the intervention.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
He's making rash decisions; it's time to knock some sense into him.
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Metaphorical Force

It's metaphorical, not about real physical force, even if it sounds a bit aggressive.

Illustration for Metaphorical Force
She's not thinking clearly; we need to knock some sense into her.
Visual representation of the word "Knock/talk some sense into somebody"

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