assume the position
The phrase "assume the position" is often used in contexts of authority, discipline, or specific roles.
Definition
B2Law Enforcement
(idiomatic, US)To turn away and place one's hands in a visible, unmovable position for a search.
Example
- The officer ordered the suspect to assume the position before conducting the search.
B2Punishment
(idiomatic, UK)To bend over, often as a command for receiving corporal punishment.
Example
- The teacher told the student to assume the position for his misbehavior.
B2General
To take on a specific stance or posture as instructed.
Example
- In the yoga class, the instructor asked everyone to assume the position for the downward dog pose.
B2Professional
To adopt a particular role or job, typically one of responsibility.
Example
- She will assume the position of project manager starting next month.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "assume the position":
assuming the mantlebend overlie backlie downtake a seatsit backtake a kneetake it up the asssit downsit rightlay downlay backstand insit underbow downface downtake the benchlotus positionsit uponprone outjockey for position