Best used in casual conversation rather than formal situations.

Casual speech

'Knock off' doesn't mean to physically hit something when used in this context.

Not literal

Often refers to concluding work in relation to time, such as quitting time.

Implies that the imitation is of lower quality than the original.

Using 'knock off' may insult manufacturers; avoid it in professional settings.

Theft can be physical or abstract, like stealing an idea.

Using 'knock off' to mean 'steal' is slang and informal.

This is a heavy topic, and the term should be used with sensitivity to the seriousness.

Mostly used in the context of crime and law enforcement narratives.