Bring somebody to their knees

usgb
phrase

To cause someone to fall or be in a weak, defeated, or subservient position.

The economic crisis could bring the government to its knees.
Visual representation of "bring somebody to their knees" - To cause someone to fall or be in a weak, defeated, or subservient position

Often appears as...

  • pandemic brought nations to their knees
  • inflation will bring economy to its knees

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "bring somebody to their knees"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Figurative Use

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

Illustration for Figurative Use
The relentless competition brought the company to its knees.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Severity of Situation

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

Illustration for Severity of Situation
Sanctions have brought the nation's economy to its knees.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Colloquial Expression

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

Illustration for Colloquial Expression
After hours of negotiations, the workers' strike brought the city to its knees.
Visual representation of the word "Bring somebody to their knees"

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