knock together

Knock together is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal speech. It means hurriedly putting something together, usually in a rough or makeshift manner. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to manual labor and construction work, where knocking together referred to quickly joining different parts of a structure without much attention to detail.

In a literal sense, the phrase likely comes from knocking two objects together to connect them, like hammering nails into wood or fitting pipes together. This physical action represents the act of quickly and informally creating or constructing something.

The idiom is often used to describe tasks or projects that are done quickly, typically in a rough or unrefined way. It implies a sense of urgency, where the goal is to complete something rather than focusing on perfection or quality. Efficiency and expediency take precedence over craftsmanship or attention to detail.

The idiom also suggests resourcefulness and improvisation. When something is "knocked together," it means the person or people involved are making use of whatever materials or resources are available, even if they are not ideal. This demonstrates the ability to work with limited resources and find creative solutions.

Another related phrase is "just like that." This expression signifies doing something quickly and effortlessly. Including this idiom in the text can emphasize the ease and speed with which something can be knocked together.

Although the idiom "knock together" is primarily used in informal speech, it can also be found in written texts, particularly in narratives or descriptions where a sense of urgency or improvisation is being conveyed. The phrase is most commonly used in American English, but it may also be understood in other English-speaking countries.