The phrase "go on all fours" is pronounced as /ɡoʊ ɒn ɔːl fɔrz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first sound, /ɡoʊ/, represents the word "go" which is pronounced with a long "o" sound. The next sound, /ɒn/, represents the short "o" sound in "on". Finally, /ɔːl fɔrz/ represents the phrase "all fours" which is pronounced with long "o" sounds and an "r" sound at the end. The spelling of this phrase is straightforward and follows typical English pronunciation rules.
The phrase "go on all fours" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of moving or positioning oneself in a manner similar to animals that walk using all four of their limbs, typically their hands and knees. Literally, it refers to the action of walking or crawling on hands and knees, with the feet or lower legs not touching the ground. This posture is commonly associated with babies during their early stages of development when they learn to crawl or with animals such as dogs or cats that maneuver on all fours regularly.
Figuratively, the expression "go on all fours" can be used to convey the idea of someone adopting a posture of submission, vulnerability, or humility. It implies that an individual is acting in a way that is lowly or subservient, possibly as a result of feeling defeated, helpless, or pleading. This figurative meaning often suggests a sense of powerlessness or resignation, emphasizing a position of subjugation or supplication.
The phrase "go on all fours" can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of adopting a certain physical or mental position or mindset. It may connote adopting a posture conducive to engaging in a specific task or activity, setting oneself in a position of readiness, or adopting a state of focused concentration.
Overall, "go on all fours" primarily denotes the literal act of walking or crawling using both hands and knees but also carries figurative connotations related to submission, vulnerability, and mental or physical preparation.