Bring somebody to their knees

Pro Tip 1/3

Figurative Use

The phrase often describes a non-physical defeat or submission, not an actual person falling down.

The relentless competition brought the company to its knees.

Pro Tip 2/3

Severity of Situation

It implies a very difficult or desperate situation that's hard to recover from.

Sanctions have brought the nation's economy to its knees.

Pro Tip 3/3

Colloquial Expression

Used informally, more common in spoken language or narrative styles.

After hours of negotiations, the workers' strike brought the city to its knees.