How Do You Spell AT KNIFEPOINT?

Pronunciation: [at nˈa͡ɪfpɔ͡ɪnt] (IPA)

The phrase "at knifepoint" is commonly used to describe a dangerous situation where someone is threatened with a knife. The spelling of "knifepoint" may seem strange, but it actually follows a common pattern in English where words ending in the sound /f/ or /v/ change to -ve in certain contexts. The IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription of "knifepoint" is /naɪf.pɔɪnt/, with the /f/ sound becoming /v/ due to the following /p/ sound, resulting in the -ve ending.

AT KNIFEPOINT Meaning and Definition

1. "At knifepoint" is an idiomatic expression commonly used to describe a threatening situation where someone is held at the sharp edge of a knife against their will. It refers to a scenario in which an individual is coerced or forced to comply with another person's demands under the threat of violence using a knife as a weapon. The use of the word "knife" implies a sharp blade that can cause physical harm or injury if used aggressively.

   This phrase emphasizes the severity and immediate danger faced by the person being threatened. The wielder of the knife is typically the aggressor who seeks to gain control, power, or possession over the victim by instilling fear and imminent harm. Such situations may occur during robberies, kidnappings, or other criminal acts, where the perpetrator uses the knife as a tool to enforce their dominance and gain compliance.

   Being held at knifepoint signifies an extreme level of vulnerability and helplessness for the victim. The term underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgency to take action or yield in order to escape potential harm. It highlights the element of force and violence associated with the possession and use of a knife, making it a frightening and potentially life-threatening ordeal for the person at the receiving end of the threat.

Common Misspellings for AT KNIFEPOINT

• zt knifepoint
• st knifepoint
• wt knifepoint
• qt knifepoint
• ar knifepoint
• af knifepoint
• ag knifepoint
• ay knifepoint
• a6 knifepoint
• a5 knifepoint
• at jnifepoint
• at mnifepoint
• at lnifepoint
• at onifepoint
• at inifepoint
• at kbifepoint
• at kmifepoint
• at kjifepoint
• at khifepoint
• at knufepoint

Etymology of AT KNIFEPOINT

The phrase "at knifepoint" is derived from combining the words "at" and "knifepoint". The term "knifepoint" refers to the tip or point of a knife. When someone is under threat or coercion, typically with a knife held against them, the precise location where the knife is held becomes significant. In this case, the phrase "at knifepoint" is used to express that a person is being threatened or forced against their will by someone brandishing a knife directly at them. The term has been in use since at least the 19th century and has become a figurative expression to describe situations involving coercion or extreme danger.

Idioms with the word AT KNIFEPOINT

• at knifepoint The idiom "at knifepoint" means to be threatened or coerced by someone with a knife, usually in a violent or dangerous situation. It can also refer to being forced to do something against one's will under the threat of violence with a knife.