bend the knee

USAGE SUMMARY

"bend the knee" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used figuratively to mean to submit or show deference to someone or something. Example: In order to be knighted by the queen, one must first bend the knee in front of her.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

his absolute refusal to bend the knee.

The Guardian - Books

"Bend the knee" — all right, already!

The New Yorker

"When you bend the knee," she says.

The New Yorker

But what if he doesn't bend the knee because he can't bend the knee?

The New York Times

The man to whom Prime Ministers bend the knee?

The New Yorker

"Bend the knee"—all right, already!—or "refuse and die".

The New Yorker

I bend the knee before a fine rib of beef.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It takes no time to bend the knee!" Tyrion wails.

The New Yorker

King Donald's subjects came from the rivers to bend the knee to their victorious Vulgarian.

The New York Times

Both are keen to ensure people bend the knee to them.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So much for her imperious bend-the-knee routine!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bend the knee" when you want to convey submission to a powerful person or institution, especially in contexts related to fantasy or power dynamics.

Common error

Avoid using "bend the knee" in literal contexts unless you're specifically describing a physical action; its primary use is figurative, representing submission or deference.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "bend the knee" is as an idiomatic expression, often functioning as a verb phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used figuratively to express submission or deference. The phrase implies a power dynamic where one entity yields to another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bend the knee" is a common idiomatic expression that signifies submission or deference to authority. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. Frequently used in news, media, and informal contexts, its popularity surged with its prevalence in "Game of Thrones". While grammatically sound, it's essential to use it figuratively and be mindful of the context, avoiding overly formal situations. Alternatives include "submit to authority" or "show allegiance", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submit to authority

This alternative focuses on the action of yielding to a governing power or figure.

show allegiance

This phrase highlights the act of demonstrating loyalty and support.

kowtow to

This option implies excessive deference or subservience, often with a negative connotation.

pay homage

This suggests showing respect and reverence, often in a formal setting.

yield to demands

This alternative emphasizes compliance with specific requests or orders.

defer to someone

This phrase indicates respect for someone's opinion or authority, leading to compliance.

capitulate to

This highlights the act of surrendering or giving in, often after resistance.

succumb to pressure

This suggests giving in to external influence or coercion.

give in to authority

This phrase indicates surrendering or complying with a figure in power.

accept subjugation

This alternative focuses on the state of being under control or domination.

FAQs

What does "bend the knee" mean?

To "bend the knee" is an idiomatic expression that means to submit to someone's authority or show deference. It's often used in the context of feudal societies or hierarchical power structures.

What can I say instead of "bend the knee"?

You can use alternatives like "submit to authority", "show allegiance", or "pay homage" depending on the context.

Is "bend the knee" formal or informal?

"Bend the knee" is generally considered an informal or literary expression. It is frequently seen in fiction, especially fantasy genres, and less so in formal academic or business writing.

How did "bend the knee" become popular?

The phrase "bend the knee" gained significant popularity due to its frequent usage in the "Game of Thrones" series, where it represented pledging fealty to a ruler. This exposure popularized its use in contemporary contexts, often with a similar connotation of submission to power.