English Profile

kick · verb I or T

/kɪk/Full view

kick

A1 to hit someone or something with the foot, or to move the feet and legs suddenly and violently

Dictionary examples:

I kicked the ball as hard as I could.

He was accused of kicking a man in the face.

Learner example:

I picked up a ball and kicked it, [and] the dog ran after it with the phone still in his mouth. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Hindi)

kick yourself

C2 to be very annoyed with yourself for doing something stupid or wrong

Dictionary example:

I could have kicked myself for saying that.

Learner example:

Nevertheless what kept me kicking myself was that this time my partner was in danger as well. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Portuguese)

kick in

C1 to start to be effective or to happen

Dictionary example:

The new tax rate kicks in next month.

Learner example:

It is at this time that the hormones start to kick in resulting in most of them having to suffer the side effects. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Chinese)

kick off

C2 When an event kicks off, it begins.

Dictionary example:

What time does the parade kick off?

Learner example:

Not only did [the invention of the wheel] improve daily movements, but also it kicked off a much faster and easier way of traveling all over the world. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Italian)

kick (sth) off

C2 When you kick off a discussion or activity, you start it.

Dictionary example:

Should we kick off the session with a presentation from Lisa?

kick sb out

C1 to force someone to leave a place or organization

Dictionary example:

The store is closing - we should leave before they kick us out.

Learner example:

He will kick you out of his house without thanking you. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Portuguese)

kick · noun C

/kɪk/

kick (HIT)

A2 the action of kicking something

Dictionary example:

She gave him a kick under the table to shut him up.

Learner example:

We [practiced] shooting, passing the ball to each other, and [taking a] corner kick. (Preliminary English Test; B1; German)

kick (FEELING)

C2 a special feeling of excitement and energy

Dictionary example:

She gets a kick out of performing live.

Learner example:

I really get a kick out of anything which concerns magic. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)