- To get married.
Explanation
Origin
The exact origin is debated, but several theories exist:
- Roman Tradition: Brides wore girdles knotted in a specific way (Herculean knot), symbolizing binding union, which the groom untied.
- Handfasting: An ancient Celtic or Norse tradition where the couple's hands were literally tied together with ribbons or cords during the wedding ceremony to symbolize their union.
- Figurative Knots: The general symbolism of knots representing a strong, binding, and sometimes complex connection fits marriage well.
The phrase has been used in English since at least the early 18th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Get hitched
- Make it official
- Put a ring on it (Often refers more to engagement, but implies marriage goal)
- Shacking up (Living together without marriage, sometimes used contrastively)
Milder/Formal:
- Get married
- Be joined in matrimony
- Enter into marriage
- Wed
Humorous/Informal:
- Take the plunge
- Sign the papers
- Become ball and chain (Humorous, slightly negative stereotype)
Situational Appropriateness
- Mostly informal to semi-formal. It's a common, slightly folksy or romantic way to talk about getting married. Fine for most social contexts, but perhaps less common in very formal announcements.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Highly figurative. Ensure understanding that it means getting married, not literally tying a knot.
Examples
- After dating for five years, they finally decided to tie the knot.
- They're tying the knot in a small ceremony next summer.
- When are you two going to tie the knot?
Dialogue
Chloe: Have you heard the news about Sam and Olivia?
Ethan: No, what's up?
Chloe: They're finally tying the knot! They got engaged last night.
Ethan: Wow, that's fantastic! I knew it was coming. When's the wedding?
Chloe: They haven't decided yet, but probably sometime next year.
Social Media Examples
- Post: We're excited to announce that we're officially tying the knot next June! ❤️ #Engaged #WeddingBells #TyingTheKnot
- Tweet: Congrats to my best friend who tied the knot this weekend! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness! #JustMarried
- Comment: Aww, you two are so cute together! When are you going to tie the knot?
Response Patterns
- Congratulations!
- That's wonderful news!
- When's the big day?
- We haven't set a date yet.
- We're planning for next year.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone announces they are tying the knot:
- People typically offer congratulations and ask details like When?, Where?, Have you set a date?.
After asking someone when they will tie the knot:
- The couple might share their plans, say they aren't ready, or deflect the question.
Conversation Starter
- Yes, asking So, any plans to tie the knot soon? can be a (sometimes sensitive) conversation starter with a long-term couple. Announcing it is definitely a topic initiator.
Intonation
- Emphasis on tie and knot. TIE the KNOT.
- Often said with a happy, celebratory, or inquiring tone.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations, though perhaps feels slightly more traditional or quaint to some younger people compared to just get married.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.