How Do You Spell CHEEK BY JOWL?

Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈiːk ba͡ɪ d͡ʒˈa͡ʊl] (IPA)

"Cheek by jowl" is an English idiom that means to be in close proximity or side by side. It is not a straightforward spelling, as the pronunciation can be confusing. The first word, "cheek," is pronounced /tʃiːk/, while the second word, "jowl," is pronounced /dʒaʊl/. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /tʃiːk baɪ dʒaʊl/. Despite the unusual spelling, "cheek by jowl" remains a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation.

CHEEK BY JOWL Meaning and Definition

1. "Cheek by jowl" is an idiomatic expression that refers to being in extremely close proximity or in very close quarters with someone or something else. The phrase is often used to describe a situation where two or more entities are pressed closely together or situated side by side with little or no space in between them. The term can apply to both physical and metaphorical situations.

   In a literal sense, "cheek by jowl" can describe items or individuals that are tightly packed or positioned very closely to each other. For example, in a crowded room, people could be described as sitting or standing cheek by jowl. Similarly, objects stacked or placed side by side with no space between them could be considered cheek by jowl.

   Metaphorically, the expression is often used to illustrate a close association, relationship, or the lack of personal space or privacy. It can convey the idea of being in close quarters with another person or being in a situation where one's personal boundaries are breached. It suggests a sense of intimacy, entanglement, or intertwining, be it in positive or negative circumstances.

   Overall, "cheek by jowl" conveys the concept of extreme proximity, either physical or metaphorical, and serves to emphasize the idea of close, almost overcrowded coexistence.

2. Nearness; closeness; side by side.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CHEEK BY JOWL

• xheek by jowl
• vheek by jowl
• fheek by jowl
• dheek by jowl
• cgeek by jowl
• cbeek by jowl
• cneek by jowl
• cjeek by jowl
• cueek by jowl
• cyeek by jowl
• chwek by jowl
• chsek by jowl
• chdek by jowl
• chrek by jowl
• ch4ek by jowl
• ch3ek by jowl
• chewk by jowl
• chesk by jowl
• chedk by jowl

Idioms with the word CHEEK BY JOWL

• cheek by jowl (with somebody/something) The idiom "cheek by jowl (with somebody/something)" means to be in very close proximity or crowded together with someone or something. It implies being physically very close to someone or something to the point of being practically touching or side by side. It can also suggest being in close association or alignment with someone or something in a figurative sense.
• cheek by jowl The idiom "cheek by jowl" means to be close together or in close proximity. It can also refer to being in close physical contact or intimate proximity with someone or something.