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balk

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balk at the idea (of something)

To indignantly reject or recoil from a given idea, topic, or suggestion. He balked at the idea of reducing the number of staff to pay for an increase to the executives' pay.

See also: balk, idea

balk at

To be hesitant about doing something or to refuse to do it. My dog balked at leaving the park. The young performer balked at taking the stage at the talent show.

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balk at something

to resist and object to something; to shy away from doing something. I hope they don't balk at finishing their work. They will probably balk at it.

See also: balk

balk at

v.

1. To stop short and refuse to go on to do something: The horse balked at jumping over the fence.

2. To refuse something obstinately or abruptly: The politician balked at the compromise suggested by the opposing party.

See also: balk