# assume the position

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/assume-the-position
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To turn away, with one's hands in a visible and unmovable position, so that one can be searched.

## Examples

- The officer told the suspect to assume the position.
- When the police arrived at the scene, they ordered the man to assume the position against the wall.
- The suspect slowly raised his hands and assumed the position as the officers approached with their weapons drawn.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.