knees 30秒で
- The knees are the vital joints in the middle of the legs that allow for bending and movement.
- Commonly used in contexts of health, sports, and daily physical actions like walking or kneeling.
- The word features a silent 'k' and is almost always used in its plural form 'knees'.
- Metaphorically, it can represent weakness, submission, or a quick, unthinking reaction.
The word 'knees' refers to the complex hinge joints located in the middle of the human leg, connecting the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). In the context of human anatomy, the knee is one of the largest and most vital joints in the body, facilitating a wide range of movements including flexion, extension, and a limited degree of internal and external rotation. People use this word daily because it is fundamental to describing physical actions, health conditions, and even emotional states. When we talk about walking, we are implicitly talking about the function of our knees. When a child falls and scrapes their skin, they often scrape their knees. In a medical context, doctors discuss the patella, which is the kneecap, and the various ligaments like the ACL that keep the joint stable. Beyond the physical, the word 'knees' appears in many social and metaphorical contexts. For instance, 'bringing someone to their knees' suggests a state of defeat or submission, while 'weak at the knees' describes a feeling of intense emotion or physical frailty. Understanding the word 'knees' is essential for anyone learning English because it is a high-frequency noun that appears in basic descriptions of the body, sports commentary, medical advice, and common idioms. The knee is not just a bone; it is a symbol of mobility and strength.
- Anatomical Position
- The knee is situated between the upper leg and the lower leg, acting as the primary pivot point for locomotion.
The athlete felt a sharp pain in both knees after the marathon.
In daily conversation, you might hear someone say they need to 'bend their knees' when lifting a heavy box to avoid back injury. This highlights the functional importance of the joint. In fashion, we talk about 'knee-length' skirts or 'knee-high' boots, using the joint as a measurement marker for clothing. The word is also central to many childhood experiences; children are often told to 'get off their knees' to avoid dirtying their trousers, or they might complain about 'growing pains' in their knees. The knee's vulnerability is also a common topic, as it is a frequent site for injuries in sports like football, basketball, and skiing. This makes the word 'knees' a staple in sports journalism and physical therapy. Furthermore, the knee has cultural significance in various rituals, such as kneeling to pray, kneeling to propose marriage, or kneeling as a form of protest. Each of these actions uses the physical joint to convey a deep symbolic meaning, ranging from reverence and love to defiance and a call for justice. Therefore, mastering the use of 'knees' involves understanding both its literal biological function and its vast array of figurative applications in the English language.
- Functional Movement
- The primary function of the knees is to allow the legs to bend, which is necessary for sitting down and climbing stairs.
She sat on the floor with her knees tucked against her chest.
The complexity of the knee joint means it is often discussed in terms of its component parts. While 'knees' is the general term, you might also hear 'kneecap' (patella), 'ligaments', or 'cartilage'. When someone says their 'knees are clicking', they are describing a common physical sensation that can be either harmless or a sign of wear and tear. In the workplace, 'knee-jerk reaction' is a common metaphorical phrase derived from the physical reflex test doctors perform by tapping the patellar tendon. This demonstrates how a simple anatomical term can evolve into a complex descriptor for human behavior—specifically, a quick, unthinking response to a situation. Whether you are at the gym, in a doctor's office, or reading a novel, the word 'knees' will appear frequently, making it a cornerstone of English vocabulary. Its pronunciation is also a classic example of English spelling quirks, where the 'k' is silent, a fact that every beginner learner must memorize to sound natural. By understanding the multi-faceted nature of 'knees', you gain insight into human biology, social customs, and the idiomatic richness of the English language.
- Common Injuries
- Many people suffer from 'runner's knee' or 'housemaid's knee', which are colloquial terms for specific types of inflammation.
He had to wear protective pads on his knees while skateboarding.
The gardener spent all afternoon on her knees planting flowers.
Using the word 'knees' correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a plural count noun and its common associations with specific verbs and adjectives. Most often, 'knees' is the object of an action or the subject of a physical sensation. For example, you might 'bend', 'flex', 'straighten', 'injure', or 'protect' your knees. Adjectives often describe the state of the knees, such as 'sore', 'weak', 'knobbly', 'scraped', or 'steady'. When constructing sentences, it is important to remember that 'knees' usually requires a possessive pronoun like 'my', 'your', 'his', or 'her' because they are parts of the body. You wouldn't typically say 'The knees hurt' unless you were speaking in a very detached, medical sense; instead, you would say 'My knees hurt'. This personal connection is a key feature of how body parts are discussed in English. Additionally, 'knees' is frequently used in prepositional phrases, such as 'on one's knees', which can describe a physical position (kneeling) or a metaphorical state of desperation. For instance, 'The company was brought to its knees by the financial crisis' uses the plural noun to indicate that the organization was nearly destroyed or forced into a position of weakness.
- Physical Action
- Verbs like 'bend' and 'fold' are frequently paired with 'knees' to describe movement.
Please bend your knees when you lift that heavy suitcase.
Another important aspect of using 'knees' in sentences is the silent 'k'. Even though the word starts with 'k', it is pronounced starting with the 'n' sound. This is a common stumbling block for learners, but once mastered, it allows for smooth sentence flow. In more advanced usage, 'knees' can be part of compound words or phrases that function as adjectives. 'Knee-deep' is a perfect example, used to describe the depth of water or, metaphorically, the extent of someone's involvement in a difficult situation. 'He was knee-deep in paperwork' means he had a overwhelming amount of work to do. Similarly, 'knee-high' is used to describe height, often in the phrase 'since I was knee-high to a grasshopper', which is a whimsical way of saying 'since I was a very small child'. These idiomatic uses expand the utility of the word far beyond simple anatomy. When writing about health, you might use 'knees' in the context of chronic conditions: 'As people age, they often experience stiffness in their knees.' Here, the word helps to specify the location of the discomfort, which is crucial for clear communication in a medical or caregiving setting.
- Metaphorical Usage
- Phrases like 'weak at the knees' describe emotional reactions rather than physical ailments.
The romantic surprise made her feel weak at the knees.
In descriptive writing, 'knees' can be used to add vivid detail to a character's appearance or actions. 'His knees knocked together in fear' provides a clear image of someone who is terrified. 'She hugged her knees' suggests a defensive or contemplative posture. These descriptions rely on the reader's understanding of how the human body moves and reacts. In academic or technical writing, 'knees' might be replaced by more specific terms like 'tibiofemoral joints', but in general English, 'knees' remains the standard and most effective term. Whether you are describing a physical injury, a fashion choice, or an emotional state, the word 'knees' provides a versatile and essential tool for expression. It is also worth noting that 'knees' is often used in the plural even when the action might technically involve one knee at a time, such as 'walking on your knees', which implies a crawling motion. By paying attention to these nuances, learners can use the word 'knees' with the same precision and naturalness as a native speaker.
- Descriptive Phrases
- Using 'knees' to describe a person's posture or emotional state adds depth to narrative writing.
The toddler fell down and scraped both of his knees on the pavement.
He was so nervous that his knees were shaking uncontrollably.
The word 'knees' is ubiquitous in everyday life, appearing in a variety of settings from the mundane to the professional. One of the most common places you will hear it is in a healthcare setting. Doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists frequently use the word when discussing mobility, joint health, or injuries. You might hear a doctor ask, 'Does the pain in your knees get worse when you walk upstairs?' or a physical therapist instruct, 'Keep your knees aligned with your toes during this exercise.' This professional usage is mirrored in the fitness world, where personal trainers and yoga instructors constantly refer to 'knees' to ensure their clients are using proper form. In a gym, you'll hear phrases like 'don't let your knees cave in' or 'soften your knees'. This highlights the word's importance in the context of physical well-playing and safety. Beyond health and fitness, 'knees' is a staple in the language of childhood. Parents and teachers are often heard saying, 'Don't walk on your knees, you'll ruin your trousers!' or 'Let me see your scraped knees.' It is a word that children learn very early because it is so often associated with their active play and the inevitable minor injuries that come with it.
- Sports Commentary
- Commentators often mention 'knees' when discussing an athlete's injury or their physical condition.
The striker is down, clutching his knees after that heavy tackle.
In the world of sports, 'knees' is a word of high significance. Sports commentators and fans frequently discuss the state of a player's knees, as knee injuries can be career-ending. You might hear a commentator say, 'He's had three surgeries on those knees,' or 'Her knees just couldn't take the impact of the landing.' This usage extends to sports news and social media, where fans speculate on the health of their favorite athletes. Additionally, 'knees' appears in many popular songs and literature. In music, it often appears in romantic or emotional contexts, such as 'falling to my knees' to express desperation or 'weak at the knees' to describe attraction. These cultural references reinforce the word's place in our emotional vocabulary. In literature, authors use 'knees' to describe a character's posture or reaction—for example, 'his knees gave way' to indicate a sudden collapse from shock or exhaustion. This descriptive power makes 'knees' an essential word for storytelling. You will also encounter 'knees' in fashion and retail, where it is used to describe the fit and length of clothing. A salesperson might say, 'These jeans have reinforced knees for extra durability,' or 'This dress should fall just below the knees.'
- Everyday Instructions
- Instructions for physical tasks often include the word 'knees' to ensure correct posture.
Make sure to keep your knees slightly bent while you wait in line.
Finally, 'knees' is heard in many common idioms and fixed expressions that are used in both casual and formal speech. The phrase 'the bee's knees' is a slightly old-fashioned but still recognized way of saying something is excellent. In a more serious tone, politicians or activists might talk about 'bringing a nation to its knees', referring to economic or social collapse. These metaphorical uses are so common that native speakers often don't even think about the physical joint when they use them. You might also hear 'knee-jerk' used in news reports to describe a politician's quick response to an event. By listening for 'knees' in these diverse contexts—from the playground to the parliament—you can see how a simple anatomical term becomes a versatile tool for communication. Whether it's a literal description of a body part or a figurative expression of power or emotion, 'knees' is a word that you will encounter daily in the English-speaking world. Paying attention to how it is used in different registers will help you understand the nuances of the language and improve your own speaking and writing skills.
- Metaphorical Speech
- Idioms involving 'knees' are common in political and social commentary.
The economic sanctions were designed to bring the regime to its knees.
She thought the new restaurant was the bee's knees.
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word 'knees' is related to its pronunciation. Because it begins with the letter 'k', many students attempt to pronounce the 'k' sound, resulting in something like 'k-neez'. However, in English, the 'k' is silent when followed by an 'n' at the beginning of a word, as in 'knife', 'know', and 'knees'. Mastering this silent 'k' is crucial for sounding natural. Another common error is confusing the singular 'knee' with the plural 'knees'. While this might seem simple, learners often use the singular when the plural is required by the context of the action. For example, saying 'I fell on my knee' is correct if you only hit one, but if you are talking about a general action like kneeling, you must say 'I was on my knees'. Similarly, when describing a physical condition that affects both legs, the plural is essential: 'My knees are aching' rather than 'My knee are aching'. This also involves subject-verb agreement, where 'knees' requires the plural verb 'are' or 'were'.
- Pronunciation Error
- Do not pronounce the 'k'. It is silent. The word sounds like 'neez'.
Incorrect: I can feel my k-nees cracking. Correct: I can feel my knees cracking.
Spelling is another area where mistakes occur. Some learners forget the double 'e' and write 'knes' or 'kneis'. The 'ee' spelling is consistent with the long 'e' sound in English, and remembering this pattern can help. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the possessive form. When talking about someone's knees, you need the possessive pronoun: 'his knees', 'her knees', 'their knees'. A common mistake is to omit the pronoun or use the wrong one, which can make the sentence sound unnatural or confusing. In metaphorical use, learners often misinterpret idioms like 'knee-jerk reaction'. Some might think it literally refers to a physical jerk of the knee, failing to understand its figurative meaning of a hasty, unthinking response. Using these idioms correctly requires an understanding of their non-literal meanings. Furthermore, the phrase 'on one's knees' is sometimes used incorrectly with the wrong preposition; for example, saying 'in my knees' instead of 'on my knees' when describing a kneeling position. 'In my knees' would typically refer to a feeling inside the joint, like pain, whereas 'on my knees' refers to the physical posture.
- Grammar Error
- Confusing 'on my knees' (position) with 'in my knees' (internal sensation).
He was on his knees looking for the lost contact lens.
Another subtle mistake involves the use of 'knees' in compound adjectives. For instance, 'knee-length' is a single concept and should be hyphenated when it comes before a noun, like 'a knee-length skirt'. Forgetting the hyphen or using 'knee length' as two separate words in this context is a common minor error in writing. Similarly, 'knee-high' should be hyphenated. Learners also sometimes confuse 'knees' with 'elbows' or other joints when they are first learning body parts. While this is a basic vocabulary error, it can lead to significant confusion in medical or instructional contexts. Finally, be careful with the phrase 'to take a knee'. While it has become a well-known term for a specific type of protest or a way to rest in sports, using it in the wrong context might not convey the intended meaning. For example, 'taking a knee' in a formal business meeting might be seen as very unusual unless it's a known cultural or political gesture. By being mindful of these common pitfalls—pronunciation, spelling, pluralization, and idiomatic accuracy—you can use the word 'knees' more effectively and confidently in your English communication.
- Punctuation Error
- Omitting the hyphen in compound adjectives like 'knee-high' or 'knee-length'.
She wore knee-high socks to keep her legs warm.
The doctor checked the reflexes in both of his knees.
While 'knees' is the most common and versatile word for this part of the body, there are several alternatives and related terms that can be used depending on the context. In a medical or anatomical setting, you might encounter the term 'patella', which specifically refers to the kneecap—the small, circular bone that protects the front of the knee joint. While 'knees' is a general term for the whole joint, 'patella' is precise and technical. Another related term is 'joint', which is a broader category that includes the knees, elbows, shoulders, and hips. If you want to be less specific, you might say 'leg joints'. In the context of movement, 'hinge' is sometimes used as a metaphor for the knee, as the knee functions similarly to a door hinge. For example, a coach might tell an athlete to 'work on their hinge movement', referring to the bending of the knees and hips. Understanding these alternatives allows you to choose the word that best fits the level of formality and precision required for your situation.
- Technical Term
- 'Patella' is the medical term for the kneecap, often used by doctors and surgeons.
The X-ray showed a small fracture in the left patella.
In descriptive or poetic writing, you might find other ways to refer to the knees. 'Hams' is an old-fashioned and somewhat informal term for the back of the knees or the thighs, as in 'sitting on one's hams'. While rare today, it appears in older literature. 'Genu' is the Latin root for knee, and while not used in everyday speech, it is the basis for words like 'genuflect', which means to lower one's body by bending one knee, typically in worship or respect. This shows how the concept of the knee is embedded in more complex vocabulary. When talking about animals, the term 'stifle' is often used instead of 'knee' for the corresponding joint in the hind leg of a horse or dog. This is a crucial distinction for anyone involved in veterinary medicine or animal care. By knowing these specific terms, you can communicate more accurately in specialized fields. Even within general English, you can use phrases like 'lower limbs' or 'mid-leg' to refer to the area around the knees, though these are much less common than simply saying 'knees'.
- Animal Anatomy
- In four-legged animals, the joint equivalent to the human knee is often called the 'stifle'.
The horse was limping due to an injury in its stifle joint.
Comparing 'knees' to other joints can also help clarify its meaning. Unlike the 'elbow', which is the joint in the arm, the 'knee' is in the leg. Both are hinge joints, but the knee is much larger and bears the weight of the entire body, making it more prone to certain types of stress and injury. The 'ankle' is another leg joint, but it is located further down, connecting the leg to the foot. In fashion, 'knee-length' is often compared to 'mini' (above the knee) or 'midi' (below the knee) or 'maxi' (ankle-length). These comparisons help to define the word through its relationship to other parts of the body and other concepts of measurement. By understanding the full range of similar words and alternatives, you can enrich your vocabulary and express yourself with greater variety and precision. Whether you are writing a medical report, a sports article, or a personal story, having a selection of related terms at your disposal will make your English more sophisticated and effective.
- Joint Comparison
- The knee is a weight-bearing hinge joint, unlike the elbow which does not support body weight.
While the elbow and knees are both hinge joints, they serve very different functions.
The skirt was a perfect knee-length fit for the formal event.
How Formal Is It?
豆知識
The silent 'k' in 'knees' was pronounced in English until about the 17th century. If you lived 400 years ago, you would have said 'k-neez'!
発音ガイド
- Pronouncing the 'k' sound at the beginning.
- Using a short 'i' sound instead of a long 'ee' sound.
- Ending the word with an 's' sound instead of a 'z' sound.
- Confusing the pronunciation with 'nice'.
- Adding an extra syllable.
難易度
The word is very common and easy to recognize in text.
The silent 'k' and double 'e' can be slightly tricky for beginners.
Mastering the silent 'k' is essential for correct pronunciation.
The word is clearly pronounced and easy to hear in conversation.
次に学ぶべきこと
前提知識
次に学ぶ
上級
知っておくべき文法
Silent 'K' Rule
In words like 'knee', 'knife', and 'know', the 'k' is not pronounced.
Plural Noun Agreement
'My knees are sore' (not 'is sore').
Possessive Pronouns with Body Parts
We say 'my knees', 'his knees', etc., rather than 'the knees'.
Compound Adjective Hyphenation
Use a hyphen in 'knee-length' when it precedes a noun.
Prepositional Use for Posture
Use 'on' for 'on my knees' to describe kneeling.
レベル別の例文
I have two knees.
J'ai deux genoux.
Plural noun 'knees' follows the number 'two'.
Bend your knees.
Pliez vos genoux.
Imperative verb 'bend' followed by the object 'knees'.
My knees are sore.
Mes genoux sont douloureux.
Plural subject 'knees' takes the plural verb 'are'.
He fell on his knees.
Il est tombé sur ses genoux.
Prepositional phrase 'on his knees' describes the position.
The baby has small knees.
Le bébé a de petits genoux.
Adjective 'small' describes the noun 'knees'.
Touch your knees.
Touchez vos genoux.
Simple command using 'touch' and 'knees'.
She has a scrape on her knees.
Elle a une éraflure aux genoux.
Noun 'scrape' followed by the location 'on her knees'.
Your knees are in the middle of your legs.
Vos genoux sont au milieu de vos jambes.
Descriptive sentence using the plural 'are'.
He wears pads to protect his knees.
Il porte des protections pour protéger ses genoux.
Infinitive 'to protect' shows the purpose for the pads.
She is wearing a knee-length dress.
Elle porte une robe à hauteur du genou.
Compound adjective 'knee-length' describes the dress.
The water was up to my knees.
L'eau m'arrivait aux genoux.
Prepositional phrase 'up to my knees' indicates depth.
Don't walk on your knees.
Ne marche pas sur tes genoux.
Negative imperative 'don't walk' with the location 'on your knees'.
He straightened his knees after sitting.
Il a tendu ses genoux après s'être assis.
Past tense verb 'straightened' with the object 'knees'.
The doctor checked my knees.
Le médecin a examiné mes genoux.
Simple past tense 'checked' with 'knees'.
She sat with her knees together.
Elle s'est assise les genoux serrés.
Adverbial phrase 'with her knees together' describes the posture.
He has very strong knees from running.
Il a des genoux très solides à force de courir.
Adjective 'strong' describes the noun 'knees'.
The athlete has a serious injury in both knees.
L'athlète a une blessure grave aux deux genoux.
Prepositional phrase 'in both knees' specifies the location of the injury.
The news made him feel weak at the knees.
La nouvelle lui a fait flageoler les jambes.
Idiomatic expression 'weak at the knees' describes an emotional state.
The company was brought to its knees by the crisis.
L'entreprise a été mise à genoux par la crise.
Metaphorical use of 'brought to its knees' meaning defeated.
He was knee-deep in mud after the rain.
Il avait de la boue jusqu'aux genoux après la pluie.
Compound adjective 'knee-deep' used literally here.
She had a knee-jerk reaction to the criticism.
Elle a eu une réaction instinctive à la critique.
Idiomatic compound adjective 'knee-jerk' describing a reaction.
The gardener spent hours on her knees.
La jardinière a passé des heures à genoux.
Prepositional phrase 'on her knees' describes a prolonged action.
His knees were shaking with fear.
Ses genoux tremblaient de peur.
Continuous past tense 'were shaking' with the cause 'with fear'.
You should ice your knees after a long run.
Tu devrais mettre de la glace sur tes genoux après une longue course.
Modal verb 'should' followed by the verb 'ice' and object 'knees'.
The surgeon performed a total replacement of both knees.
Le chirurgien a pratiqué un remplacement total des deux genoux.
Formal medical terminology 'total replacement of both knees'.
He was knee-deep in the project and couldn't leave.
Il était plongé jusqu'au cou dans le projet et ne pouvait pas partir.
Metaphorical use of 'knee-deep' meaning deeply involved.
The protesters took a knee in a show of solidarity.
Les manifestants ont mis un genou à terre en signe de solidarité.
Idiomatic phrase 'take a knee' used as a form of protest.
Her knees gave way and she fell to the floor.
Ses jambes se sont dérobées et elle est tombée au sol.
Idiomatic phrase 'knees gave way' meaning to collapse.
The old man's knees clicked every time he stood up.
Les genoux du vieil homme craquaient chaque fois qu'il se levait.
Descriptive verb 'clicked' used with 'knees'.
The skirt was just above the knees, which was very fashionable.
La jupe arrivait juste au-dessus des genoux, ce qui était très à la mode.
Prepositional phrase 'above the knees' describing clothing length.
He was brought to his knees by the weight of the evidence.
Il a été terrassé par le poids des preuves.
Metaphorical use of 'brought to his knees' in a legal context.
She pulled her knees to her chest and began to cry.
Elle a ramené ses genoux contre sa poitrine et a commencé à pleurer.
Descriptive action 'pulled her knees to her chest'.
The anatomical complexity of the knees makes them prone to injury.
La complexité anatomique des genoux les rend sujets aux blessures.
Formal academic tone using 'anatomical complexity'.
The regime was brought to its knees by years of economic sanctions.
Le régime a été mis à genoux par des années de sanctions économiques.
Sophisticated metaphorical use in a political context.
He felt a sudden, sharp pain radiating from his knees.
Il a ressenti une douleur soudaine et vive irradiant de ses genoux.
Precise descriptive language 'radiating from'.
The act of genuflection involves bending one of the knees.
L'acte de génuflexion consiste à plier l'un des genoux.
Use of the formal term 'genuflection' related to 'knees'.
She was knee-high to a grasshopper when she first started piano.
Elle était haute comme trois pommes quand elle a commencé le piano.
Whimsical idiom 'knee-high to a grasshopper' for being very young.
The athlete's career was cut short by chronic issues with his knees.
La carrière de l'athlète a été écourtée par des problèmes chroniques aux genoux.
Use of 'chronic issues' in a professional context.
The dress featured a delicate lace hem that brushed her knees.
La robe présentait un ourlet en dentelle délicate qui effleurait ses genoux.
Literary description using 'brushed her knees'.
The knee-jerk reaction of the market led to a sudden crash.
La réaction instinctive du marché a conduit à un krach soudain.
Metaphorical 'knee-jerk' applied to economic behavior.
The philosopher argued that we are all, in a sense, on our knees before the infinite.
Le philosophe a soutenu que nous sommes tous, d'une certaine manière, à genoux devant l'infini.
Abstract philosophical use of 'on our knees'.
The intricate interplay of ligaments in the knees is a marvel of evolution.
L'interaction complexe des ligaments dans les genoux est une merveille de l'évolution.
High-level academic description 'intricate interplay'.
The city was brought to its knees, not by force, but by its own internal decay.
La ville a été mise à genoux, non par la force, mais par sa propre déchéance interne.
Complex metaphorical structure in a sociological context.
He dismissed the proposal as a knee-jerk response to a complex problem.
Il a rejeté la proposition, la considérant comme une réponse instinctive à un problème complexe.
Nuanced use of 'knee-jerk' in a professional critique.
The protagonist's knees buckled under the weight of the revelation.
Les jambes du protagoniste ont fléchi sous le poids de la révélation.
Literary use of 'knees buckled' for emotional impact.
The custom of genuflecting before the monarch dates back centuries.
La coutume de faire la génuflexion devant le monarque remonte à des siècles.
Formal historical reference involving the root of 'knees'.
The athlete's resilience was tested by multiple surgeries on his knees.
La résilience de l'athlète a été mise à l'épreuve par de multiples interventions chirurgicales aux genoux.
Sophisticated use of 'resilience' and 'multiple surgeries'.
The bee's knees of the collection was a rare, hand-woven silk scarf.
Le clou de la collection était une rare écharpe en soie tissée à la main.
Idiomatic 'the bee's knees' used in a high-fashion context.
よく使う組み合わせ
よく使うフレーズ
— To be covered by something up to the level of your knees. It can also mean being very busy.
The snow was up to our knees.
— To be in a position of prayer or humble request. Often used formally.
He asked for forgiveness on bended knees.
— To be very involved in something or to have a lot of something to deal with.
I am knee-deep in emails today.
— To kneel on one knee, often as a sign of protest or to rest during a game.
The players decided to take a knee during the anthem.
— To almost destroy something or force it into a position of weakness.
The strike brought the city to its knees.
— To feel very emotional, usually because of love, fear, or shock.
The sight of the accident made her weak at the knees.
— A quick response that is made without thinking about it first.
It was a knee-jerk reaction to the news.
— A humorous way of saying since I was a very small child.
I've lived here since I was knee-high to a grasshopper.
— An old-fashioned way to say that something is excellent or of very high quality.
This new car is the bee's knees!
— To suddenly kneel down, often because of strong emotion or exhaustion.
He fell to his knees when he heard the good news.
よく混同される語
Both are hinge joints, but elbows are in the arms and knees are in the legs.
Both are in the leg, but ankles are lower down, near the feet.
Sometimes confused in pronunciation by very early learners, but 'nice' has an 's' sound and 'knees' has a 'z' sound.
慣用句と表現
— Something or someone that is outstanding or excellent.
Her homemade apple pie is the bee's knees.
informal/old-fashioned— An immediate and unthinking response to a situation.
The government's knee-jerk reaction was to ban the product.
neutral— Feeling unsteady or faint due to strong emotion.
He was weak at the knees when he proposed to her.
informal— To defeat someone completely or force them to submit.
The army was brought to its knees by the harsh winter.
formal/neutral— To be heavily involved in a difficult or problematic situation.
After the scandal, he was knee-deep in trouble.
informal— In a very humble or pleading manner.
She went to the boss on bended knee to ask for her job back.
formal— Very young or small.
I haven't seen him since he was knee-high to a grasshopper.
informal/whimsical— To humiliate someone or undermine their authority suddenly.
The manager's criticism cut him off at the knees.
informal— To kneel as a form of protest or a strategic pause in sports.
The quarterback took a knee to run down the clock.
neutral— A lively party or celebration with dancing.
We had a real knees-up at the wedding.
informal (British)間違えやすい
Singular vs. Plural
Use 'knee' for one joint and 'knees' for both joints. Most actions involve both.
I hurt my left knee, but both my knees are tired.
Verb vs. Noun
'Kneel' is the action of going down on your knees. 'Knees' is the noun for the body part.
You have to kneel on your knees to pray.
Homophone
'Knead' means to work dough with your hands. It sounds similar but is spelled differently and has a different meaning.
You need to knead the dough, but don't hurt your knees while standing.
Homophone
'Need' means something is necessary. It sounds exactly like 'knee' (singular) but not 'knees'.
I need to rest my knees.
Sound
'Nay' is an old word for 'no'. It sounds slightly like the first part of 'knees' but is unrelated.
He said nay, but his knees were shaking.
文型パターン
I have [number] knees.
I have two knees.
My knees are [adjective].
My knees are sore.
He is wearing [adjective]-knees [noun].
He is wearing knee-high socks.
Don't [verb] on your knees.
Don't walk on your knees.
The [noun] made me feel weak at the knees.
The news made me feel weak at the knees.
He was [adjective]-deep in [noun].
He was knee-deep in mud.
The [noun] was brought to its knees by [noun].
The company was brought to its knees by the debt.
It was a knee-jerk [noun] to the [noun].
It was a knee-jerk reaction to the crisis.
語族
名詞
動詞
形容詞
関連
使い方
Very high in daily conversation and medical/sports contexts.
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Pronouncing the 'k' in knees.
→
Pronounce it as 'neez'.
The 'k' is silent in English when it comes before an 'n' at the start of a word.
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Saying 'My knees is sore'.
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Say 'My knees are sore'.
Knees is a plural noun, so it requires the plural verb 'are'.
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Spelling it as 'knes' or 'kneis'.
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Spell it as 'knees'.
The word uses a double 'e' to create the long 'e' sound.
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Using 'in my knees' for a kneeling position.
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Use 'on my knees'.
'On my knees' describes the physical posture of kneeling.
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Forgetting the hyphen in 'knee-length skirt'.
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Use 'knee-length skirt'.
Compound adjectives should be hyphenated when they come before the noun they describe.
ヒント
Silent K
Always remember that the 'K' is silent. Practice saying 'neez' to sound natural. It's just like the word 'needs' but without the 'd'.
Plural Use
Since we have two knees, we usually use the plural 'knees'. Make sure your verbs match, for example, 'My knees are' instead of 'My knees is'.
Compound Words
Learn compound words like 'kneecap' and 'knee-high' to expand your vocabulary. They are very common in daily English.
Emotional State
Use 'weak at the knees' to describe strong feelings. It's a very common and expressive way to talk about love or fear.
Protection
When talking about sports, always mention 'knee pads'. It's a key term for safety equipment.
Bending
The most common verb used with knees is 'bend'. Remember to 'bend your knees' when lifting heavy things!
Double E
Don't forget the double 'e' in 'knees'. It's the same pattern as in 'feet' and 'teeth'.
Submission
The phrase 'on your knees' often implies submission or prayer. Use it carefully depending on the context.
Cultural Protest
Be aware of the modern meaning of 'taking a knee' as a form of social protest in the United States and elsewhere.
Height and Length
Use 'knee-high' and 'knee-length' to describe how tall something is or how long a piece of clothing is.
暗記しよう
記憶術
Think of 'Knees' and 'Needs'. You 'need' your 'knees' to walk! Also, remember the silent 'K' by thinking of a 'Knight' who 'kneels' on his 'knees'.
視覚的連想
Imagine a pair of legs bending at the middle. The point where they bend is the knee. Picture a small 'k' that is sleeping and silent at the front of the word.
Word Web
チャレンジ
Try to use the word 'knees' in three different sentences today: one about health, one about clothing, and one using an idiom like 'weak at the knees'.
語源
The word 'knees' comes from the Old English 'cnēow', which is related to the Dutch 'knie' and German 'Knie'. It has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European word '*genu-', which also meant knee. This root is found in many other languages, including Latin 'genu' and Greek 'gony'. The silent 'k' in English is a remnant of a time when the 'k' was actually pronounced.
元の意味： The joint of the leg.
Germanic文化的な背景
Be aware that some people may have mobility issues and cannot physically kneel, so use phrases like 'on your knees' with care in diverse groups.
In English-speaking countries, 'scraped knees' are a classic symbol of an active childhood. 'The bee's knees' is a quirky idiom from the 1920s.
実生活で練習する
実際の使用場面
Sports and Exercise
- Bend your knees
- Keep your knees aligned
- Knee injury
- Protect your knees
Health and Medicine
- Sore knees
- Knee replacement
- Swollen knees
- Clicking knees
Childhood and Play
- Scraped knees
- Don't walk on your knees
- Dirty knees
- Skinned knees
Fashion and Clothing
- Knee-length skirt
- Knee-high boots
- Reinforced knees
- Above the knees
Idioms and Metaphors
- Weak at the knees
- Bring to its knees
- Knee-jerk reaction
- The bee's knees
会話のきっかけ
"Have you ever injured your knees while playing sports?"
"What do you think about the idiom 'the bee's knees'?"
"Do your knees ever click when you stand up after sitting for a long time?"
"How do you protect your knees when you are doing heavy work?"
"Have you ever felt weak at the knees because of a romantic surprise?"
日記のテーマ
Describe a time when you felt 'weak at the knees'. What was happening?
Write about a childhood memory that involves 'scraped knees'.
How important is it to take care of your knees as you get older? Explain your thoughts.
Discuss a situation where a 'knee-jerk reaction' caused a problem.
Imagine you are a doctor. Write a short advice column about how to maintain healthy knees.
よくある質問
10 問Yes, the 'k' in 'knees' is completely silent. You pronounce the word as 'neez'. This is a common rule in English for words starting with 'kn', such as 'knife' and 'know'.
Use the singular 'knee' when you are referring to only one of the joints, for example, 'I have a pain in my right knee.' Use the plural 'knees' when referring to both, such as 'My knees are sore after running.'
It is an idiom that describes a feeling of being unsteady or faint because of a very strong emotion, like being very much in love or being extremely scared. For example, 'She felt weak at the knees when she saw her favorite singer.'
A 'knee-jerk reaction' is an immediate response to something that you do without thinking about it first. It's like the physical reflex when a doctor taps your knee and your leg kicks out automatically.
The plural of 'knee' is 'knees'. You simply add an 's' to the end of the word. Remember the double 'e' in the middle: K-N-E-E-S.
In medical terms, the kneecap is called the 'patella'. It is the thick, circular bone that protects the front of the knee joint.
It is an old-fashioned idiom that means something is excellent or of very high quality. For example, 'This new restaurant is the bee's knees!'
People 'take a knee' as a sign of respect, a form of protest, or simply to rest during a sports game. It involves kneeling down on one knee.
It is usually written as a hyphenated compound word, 'knee-length', especially when it is used as an adjective before a noun, like 'a knee-length skirt'.
Common knee injuries include torn ligaments (like the ACL), torn cartilage (meniscus), and 'runner's knee', which is pain around the kneecap.
自分をテスト 98 問
Write a sentence about why you should protect your knees.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a time when you felt 'weak at the knees'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say the word 'knees' out loud. Remember the silent 'k'.
Read this aloud:
あなたの回答：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen to the sentence: 'She fell on her knees.' What part of the body is mentioned?
/ 98 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'knees' is a fundamental anatomical term with a silent 'k' that is essential for describing physical movement, health, and emotional states through various idioms like 'weak at the knees'. For example: 'Always bend your knees when lifting heavy objects.'
- The knees are the vital joints in the middle of the legs that allow for bending and movement.
- Commonly used in contexts of health, sports, and daily physical actions like walking or kneeling.
- The word features a silent 'k' and is almost always used in its plural form 'knees'.
- Metaphorically, it can represent weakness, submission, or a quick, unthinking reaction.
Silent K
Always remember that the 'K' is silent. Practice saying 'neez' to sound natural. It's just like the word 'needs' but without the 'd'.
Plural Use
Since we have two knees, we usually use the plural 'knees'. Make sure your verbs match, for example, 'My knees are' instead of 'My knees is'.
Compound Words
Learn compound words like 'kneecap' and 'knee-high' to expand your vocabulary. They are very common in daily English.
Emotional State
Use 'weak at the knees' to describe strong feelings. It's a very common and expressive way to talk about love or fear.
