balk
What does "balk" mean?
To balk means to hesitate or be unwilling to accept an idea, plan, or undertaking. Imagine a horse suddenly stopping in its tracks and refusing to move forward because it senses an obstacle or a danger ahead; this physical resistance is the core mental image of the word. In modern usage, it is frequently used in professional or political contexts to describe someone who pulls back from a commitment due to cost, risk, or moral objection. You will often see it paired with the preposition "at," as in "balk at the price" or "balk at the proposal."
"balk" in conversation
Discussing a high-priced renovation
The contractor quoted us ten thousand for the deck.
The contractor quoted us ten thousand for the deck.
I think we should balk at that price. It's way over budget.
I think we should balk at that price. It's way over budget.
Used to express a firm refusal based on an unreasonable demand.
Negotiating a contract
Are they ready to sign the merger agreement?
Are they ready to sign the merger agreement?
Not yet. They balked at the clause regarding intellectual property.
Not yet. They balked at the clause regarding intellectual property.
Highlights a specific point of contention that causes a delay.
"balk" in a sentence
The horse balked at the jump.
The horse balked at the jump.
Many homeowners balked at the sudden increase in property taxes.
Many homeowners balked at the sudden increase in property taxes.
Even the most progressive legislators balked at the radical nature of the proposed reform.
Even the most progressive legislators balked at the radical nature of the proposed reform.
