In the English language, understanding verb forms is essential for building accurate and meaningful sentences. One such verb that often appears in both literal and symbolic contexts is kneel. From prayer and respect to proposals and ceremonies, kneel expresses a specific action with emotional and cultural weight. Knowing the verb form of kneel in its various tenses can help speakers and writers use it correctly in everyday communication, formal writing, and storytelling.
What Does the Verb Kneel” Mean?
The verb kneel means to position oneself so that one or both knees rest on the ground. It is an action often associated with humility, worship, obedience, respect, or supplication. People may kneel to show deference, perform certain rituals, or as a natural reaction to pain or submission.
Examples
- He knelt before the queen as a sign of loyalty.
- They kneel in prayer every morning.
Verb Forms of “Kneel”
Unlike regular verbs, kneel has both regular and irregular past forms depending on the style of English being used. In American English, the regular form is more commonly accepted, while British English tends to prefer the irregular form.
- Base formkneel
- Simple pastknelt or kneeled
- Past participleknelt or kneeled
- Present participlekneeling
- Third-person singularkneels
Both knelt and kneeled are correct past forms, and choosing one over the other often depends on personal preference or regional usage.
Examples in Different Tenses
Simple Present Tense
Used to describe habitual actions or general truths.
- Shekneelsevery night to pray.
- The knightkneelsbefore receiving his honor.
Present Continuous Tense
Describes actions happening now or over a period of time.
- He iskneelingbeside the injured dog.
- They arekneelingto tie their shoes.
Simple Past Tense
Describes completed actions in the past.
- The childkneltby the bed in silent prayer.
- Shekneeledon the sand and built a castle.
Past Continuous Tense
Describes actions that were ongoing at a specific point in the past.
- Theywere kneelingwhen the announcement was made.
- Hewas kneelingdown to pick up the scattered papers.
Present Perfect Tense
Used to describe actions that happened at an unspecified time before now.
- Shehas kneltin that same place every morning.
- Hehas kneeledin protest many times.
Future Tense
Describes actions that will happen in the future.
- Iwill kneelwhen I propose to her.
- Theywill be kneelingduring the ceremony.
Use of “Kneel” in Different Contexts
1. Religious and Spiritual Settings
The verb kneel is frequently used in religious contexts to express worship, repentance, or devotion.
- The congregationkneelsin silent prayer.
- Hekneltbefore the altar, seeking forgiveness.
2. Acts of Respect and Honor
Kneeling is also a gesture of respect, especially in historical or royal contexts.
- The knightkneltto receive the medal.
- Shekneelsbefore the queen during the coronation.
3. Symbolic and Political Use
In modern times, kneeling is often a symbolic act of protest or solidarity.
- The athleteskneltto raise awareness for social justice.
- Heis kneelingduring the national anthem.
4. Everyday Actions
Besides formal uses, kneel appears in casual activities too.
- Shekneelsto tend her garden.
- The fatherkneltto talk to his child eye to eye.
Regular vs Irregular Forms “Knelt” vs “Kneeled”
While both knelt and kneeled are grammatically correct, some style guides or audiences may prefer one form over the other.
- American EnglishKneeled is more accepted in everyday use.
- British EnglishKnelt is more commonly used.
Examples
- Hekneltbeside his friend. (British preference)
- Shekneeledin front of the injured animal. (American preference)
In formal writing or publications, consistency is key. Choose one and stick to it throughout the text.
Synonyms of Kneel
To avoid repetition, especially in descriptive or narrative writing, you can use synonyms or phrases that convey similar meaning.
- Drop to one’s knees
- Get down on one’s knees
- Prostrate oneself (more intense or religious)
- Lower oneself
ExampleHedropped to his kneesin gratitude.
Idiomatic Uses and Expressions
Although kneel isn’t used in many idioms, it appears in poetic and metaphorical language.
- Kneel beforeTo show submission or honor.
- Bring someone to their kneesTo defeat or humble someone completely.
Examples
- The stormbroughtthe cityto its knees.
- Heknelt beforehis enemy, asking for peace.
Tips for Using “Kneel” Correctly
- Choose the past form (knelt or kneeled) based on your audience and regional preference.
- Use the present participle kneeling for continuous actions.
- Apply kneel accurately in symbolic, religious, or everyday contexts.
- Be consistent with verb tense across your writing or speech.
The verb form of kneel carries both physical and symbolic weight, making it a valuable word in many types of communication. Its different forms kneel, knelt, kneeled, kneeling help speakers express actions across all tenses and tones. Whether you’re writing a story, describing a scene, or participating in a conversation about respect, using kneel accurately ensures clarity and emotional depth. Understanding its regional differences and contextual meanings adds even more versatility to your vocabulary and expression.