knocking on heaven's door
The phrase "knocking on heaven's door" is a metaphorical expression often used to describe being close to death or in a critical condition.
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Definition
C1General
(idiomatic, metaphorical)Being close to death or in a critical condition.
Example
- After the accident, he was knocking on heaven's door for several days.
C1Spiritual
(religious, metaphorical)Seeking entry into the afterlife or salvation.
Example
- In his final moments, he felt as though he was knocking on heaven's door, ready to meet his maker.
C1Transformational
(metaphorical)Experiencing a significant change or transformation.
Example
- After years of struggling with addiction, he felt like he was knocking on heaven's door, ready for a new beginning.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "knocking on heaven's door":