assume the position
Spread 'em, basically
Assume the position is a command to adopt a specific bodily stance, most often for a pat-down or search by police: hands on the wall, legs spread.
It also appears in sexual contexts, particularly for bending over.
More broadly, the phrase signals submitting to authority or preparing for something unpleasant: When the boss calls you in, you assume the position.
- stanceStanding posture or viewpoint
- friskSearch by touch
- body searchPhysical examination for contraband
- postureBody position, alignment
- spread eagleLimbs extended outward
spread · submission · power dynamic · crouch · role-playing · command · obedience · order · yes sir · acquiescence · cuffs · prone · detain · traffic stop · police procedure · squat · kneel · hands up
assume the positionfight back
Oppose an attacker
flee · run · struggle · resist · stand your ground
assume the positionstand tall
Maintain dignity under pressure
stand firm · square up · cover up · brace for impact · hold your ground
assume the positiontake charge
Begin leading a situation
take control · call the shots · turn the tables · break free · seize the initiative
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