Past tense for to suddenly spring or flinch back in fear, horror, or disgust
“The only price to be paid is the irritation of those who balk at the sight of a greedy quasi-criminal being honored by the Queen.”
Past tense for to be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking
“Parents concerned about allergies may balk at the idea of keeping pets around children.”
Past tense for to hesitate or be undecisive in accepting an idea or undertaking
“He also feared the president would balk at his proposal for the director of the National Research Foundation to be selected by a board of presidential appointees rather than the president himself.”
Past tense for to frustrate or prevent (someone) from achieving an aim
“He knew their enemies would do anything to balk his attempts to secure the entire estate for Mrs. King.”
Past tense for to thwart or act against
Past tense for to avoid providing a clear answer or statement
Past tense for to stand or pull back physically, typically into a defensive, aggressive or fearful posture
Past tense for to disturb the composure of
Past tense for to disregard the rules and refuse to conform
Past tense for to get away from something, especially with cunning or skill
Past tense for to cheat, deceive or defraud someone for personal gain
Past tense for to complain or raise objections
Past tense for to stop and refuse to go forward (usually of a horse)
Past tense for to hesitate or refuse to proceed due to fear, aversion, or reluctance
Past tense for to disagree with or dispute
Having been defeated in a contest
Defeated of expectation or hope
Unable to progress due to constraints
Sad or displeased because of unfulfilled hopes or expectations
Related Words and Phrases
|