What does “On all fours” mean?
"On all fours" means being in a position where your hands and knees are touching the ground.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The baby crawled around on all fours.
Example
She dropped her keys and had to search for them on all fours.
Example
The dog was playing and jumped up onto the couch on all fours
Is “On all fours” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On all fours” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “On all fours” effectively in context?
You can use "On all fours" to describe someone or something being on their hands and knees. It is often used to depict crawling or searching for something on the ground. For example, if you see a child crawling around, you might say, 'The baby was exploring the room "on all fours".'
- 1Child Development
To encourage motor skills development, parents often place toys just out of reach to motivate their baby to crawl on all fours.
- 2Lost Item
After dropping her keys, she had to search for them on all fours under the couch.
- 3Playful Pet
The dog was excitedly playing and jumped up onto the couch on all fours.
Similar phrases to “On all fours”:
To move forward on hands and knees
Example
The baby started to crawl across the room.
To rest on one's knees
Example
He knelt down to tie his shoelaces.
Grovel
To crawl or lie face down in a subservient manner
Example
He groveled before the king, begging for forgiveness.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On all fours” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On all fours" is unknown.
Is “On all fours” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "On all fours" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is frequently used to describe someone or something being on their hands and knees.
What tone does “On all fours” have?
"On all fours" conveys a neutral tone. It is a descriptive expression used to depict a specific physical position or action.
Can “On all fours” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "On all fours" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a straightforward expression that describes a physical position. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She dropped her keys and had to search for them "on all fours".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to get down "on all fours"!' to imply readiness for a physical task.
