bend of knee (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Phrase

Phonetic Transcription

/bɛnd əv niː/

Meaning and Usage

The phrase "bend of knee" refers to the action of bending one's knee, often implying submission, humility, or reverence. It can be used in various contexts, especially in religious or ceremonial settings, where the act of bending the knee represents respect, worship, or obedience.

Frequency of Use: The phrase is less common in everyday conversational English and tends to appear more in literary, formal, or ceremonial contexts. It is often found in discussions about traditions, religious practices, or historical texts.

Example Sentences

1. The knight made a bend of knee before the king, pledging his loyalty.
   (Рыцарь совершил склонение перед королем, клянуться в своей преданности.)

2. In church, it is customary to make a bend of knee when entering the sanctuary.
   (В церкви принято делать склонение, входя в святыню.)

3. To show respect during the ceremony, each participant was asked to perform a bend of knee.
   (Чтобы показать уважение во время церемонии, каждого участника попросили совершить склонение.)

Idiomatic Expressions

While "bend of knee" is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions, the concept of bending or kneeling can be included in several phrases that convey submission or deference. Here are some such idiomatic expressions:

1. "Putting your knee down" - This phrase can indicate submitting to someone's authority.
   (Это выражение может указывать на подчинение чьей-то власти.)

2. Example: "After the heated debate, I had to put my knee down and agree with the majority."
   (После жарких споров мне пришлось подчиниться и согласиться с большинством.)

3. "Fall to one's knees" - This expression signifies surrender or desperation.
   (Это выражение обозначает капитуляцию или отчаяние.)

4. Example: "In the face of overwhelming odds, she fell to her knees and prayed."
   (Перед лицом подавляющего противостояния она упала на колени и молилась.)

5. "Knee-jerk reaction" - Refers to a quick, automatic response.
   (Означает быстрый, автоматический ответ.)

6. Example: "His knee-jerk reaction to criticism was to defend himself aggressively."
   (Его рефлексивная реакция на критику заключалась в том, чтобы агрессивно защищаться.)

Etymology

The phrase "bend of knee" derives from Old English, where "bend" comes from the word bindan, meaning "to bind." The knee, in this context, symbolizes a physical and metaphorical point of submission. The notion of bending as a sign of respect or subservience is rooted in various cultural and historical practices.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:
- Kneeling
- Bowing
- Submitting

Antonyms:
- Standing firm
- Resisting
- Defying

This comprehensive exploration of the phrase "bend of knee" highlights its significance in language and culture, showcasing its unique connotations and contexts of use.