knock the wind out of
US /nɑk ðə wɪnd aʊt əv/
UK /nɑk ðə wɪnd aʊt əv/
1.
to hit someone in the stomach so hard that they have difficulty breathing
:
•
The punch to his gut really knocked the wind out of him.
•
He fell awkwardly and knocked the wind out of himself.
2.
to shock or surprise someone very much, especially in a way that makes them feel weak or unable to react
:
•
The news of her sudden death really knocked the wind out of everyone.
•
His harsh criticism knocked the wind out of her confidence.