Bring something to its knees
verb phrase
To damage or weaken something or someone so much that they cannot continue as they were.
The economic crisis could bring the country to its knees.
Often appears as...
- bring economy to its knees
- bring government to its knees
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Extreme Impact
This phrase implies a severe negative effect that threatens to stop something's normal function.
The pandemic might bring the healthcare system to its knees.
Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Sense
Used metaphorically, not literally. It's not about physical kneeling, but a collapse or failure.
The cyber attack could bring the bank to its knees.
Pro Tip 3/3Connotations of Crisis
The phrase often conveys a sense of crisis or emergency requiring urgent attention or action.
Without urgent aid, famine will bring this region to its knees.
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