kneel

/ni:l/

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Word: Kneel

Part of Speech: Verb

Advanced Usage:

• In some cultures, kneeling is a sign of respect or submission. For example, a knight might kneel before a king.
• In a more casual context, someone might kneel to tie their shoelaces or play with a child.

Word Variants:

• Noun: Kneeling
  • Example: "Kneeling for a long time can be uncomfortable."
• Noun: Knee (the body part)
  • Example: "I hurt my knee when I fell while kneeling."

Different Meaning:

• Kneel primarily refers to the physical action of resting on knees, but it can also imply a gesture of humility or respect in various contexts.

Synonyms:

• Bow (though this can imply bending at the waist, not just the knees)
• Crouch (though this is slightly different as it can involve bending the legs without resting on the knees)
• Genuflect (specifically refers to kneeling as a sign of respect in a religious context)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Kneel before someone" - This phrase means to show great respect or submission to someone powerful or important.

  • Example: "The soldier was proud to kneel before his commander."

• There are no widely recognized phrasal verbs that include "kneel," but it can often be used in phrases like "kneel down" to emphasize the action.

  • Example: "He had to kneel down to pick up the fallen toy."

Summary:

"Kneel" is a versatile verb that can be used in many situations, especially in religious practices or to show respect.

Academic

Noun

1. supporting yourself on your knees

Verb

1. rest one's weight on one's knees
   • In church you have to kneel during parts of the service

Synonyms

• kneeling