"get on your knees" vs "get on your knee"

Question

"get on your knees" vs "get on your knee"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Get on your knees' is used when addressing multiple people, while 'Get on your knee' is used when addressing a single person.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

This phrase is used when instructing or commanding multiple people to kneel down. It is a common expression in various contexts, such as in religious ceremonies, proposals, or as a form of punishment.

Examples:

During the prayer, everyone was asked to get on their knees.
The soldiers were ordered to get on their knees as a sign of surrender.
He proposed to her by asking her to get on her knees.
The teacher asked the students to get on their knees for a time-out.
In some cultures, it is a sign of respect to get on your knees in front of elders.

Alternatives:

Kneel down
Take a knee
Go down on your knees
Bend your knees
Assume a kneeling position

This phrase is used when instructing or commanding a single person to kneel down. It is appropriate in situations where you are speaking to one individual and asking them to assume a kneeling position.

Examples:

He asked her to get on her knee and propose to him.
The coach instructed the player to get on his knee for a timeout.
She got on her knee to tie her shoelaces.
The knight knelt before the king on his knee.
The teacher asked the student to get on his knee for a private conversation.

Alternatives:

Kneel down
Take a knee
Go down on your knee
Bend your knee
Assume a kneeling position

Answer 1

get on your knees

This phrase is correct and commonly used when addressing multiple people to ask them to kneel down.

Answer 2

get on your knee

This phrase is correct and commonly used when addressing a single person to ask them to kneel down.

"get on your knees" vs "get on your knee"

get on your knees

get on your knee

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