The phrase "knocks the chip off one's shoulder" refers to provoking someone or removing their sense of arrogance or hostility. There are several synonyms for this phrase, including "deflate one's ego," "challenge one's bravado," "put someone in their place," and "unsettle one's confidence." These phrases all suggest a similar idea of challenging someone and compelling them to reassess their behavior or attitude. By using these synonyms, you can add variety to your language and express the same concept in different ways. Whether you're writing an essay or engaging in a conversation, using such synonyms can help you communicate more effectively.