take a knee, on bended knee, kneel before someone

Formal and Informal Expressions of kneel

In different contexts, you can replace 'kneel' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'prostrate oneself, bow down' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'get down on one's knees, take a knee' is a commonplace synonym.

kneel: Explore its Definition & Usage

kneel Definition

to be in or move into a position where one or both knees are on the ground and one's weight is supported by them.

Using kneel: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "kneel" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He knelt down to tie his shoelaces.
Example
The knight knelt before the king.
Example
She knelt in front of the altar and prayed.
Example
The protesters knelt in silence for eight minutes.

kneel Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for kneel

Antonyms for kneel

rise
stand up

Phrases with kneel

take a knee
to kneel briefly, especially as a sign of respect or protest
Example
The football players took a knee during the national anthem to protest police brutality.
on bended knee
in a humble or pleading manner
Example
He proposed to her on bended knee, holding out a ring.
kneel before someone
to show respect or submission to someone in authority
Example
The defeated army was forced to kneel before the conqueror.

Origins of kneel

from Old English 'cnēowlian', meaning 'to kneel'

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Summary: kneel in Brief

'Kneel' [niːl] means to be in or move into a position where one or both knees are on the ground and one's weight is supported by them. It is often used to show respect or submission, as in 'The knight knelt before the king.' 'Kneel' also appears in phrases like 'take a knee,' which can be used as a sign of protest, and 'on bended knee,' which implies a humble or pleading manner.