Under the knife

usgb
phrase

Going into surgery or being operated on by a doctor.

The footballer will have to go under the knife to fix his knee injury.
Visual representation of "under the knife" - Going into surgery or being operated on by a doctor

Often appears as...

  • go under the knife
  • came under the knife

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "under the knife"
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Metaphorical Use

Used to describe undergoing surgery but can be a metaphor for a major change or overhaul.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The software company is going under the knife with a complete redesign of its platform.
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Informal Tone

Common in casual conversation, it's less formal than saying 'having surgery'.

Illustration for Informal Tone
I'm a bit nervous about going under the knife next week.
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Negative Connotation

Often implies apprehension or reluctance about the surgery.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
After much hesitation, she decided to go under the knife to improve her health.
Visual representation of the word "Under the knife"

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