Which Knee Do You Propose On?

If you're gearing up for a proposal (how exciting!), you may have found yourself wondering: what knee do you propose on? It’s one of those questions you might feel silly asking out loud - but trust us, you’re not the only one searching for answers.

Luckily for you, we are the wedding experts, so we’ve broken down everything you need (knee’d - get it?) to know when you propose:

• What knee do you get down on to propose?
• Why do you get down on one knee to propose?
• Do you have to get down on one knee to propose?
• What to say when you propose?

What Knee Do You Get Down On to Propose

Traditionally, you go down on your left knee when proposing. That’s the standard answer. But where did this idea even come from - and does it really matter?

Why do you propose on one knee?

The act of getting down on one knee to propose dates back to medieval times and knighthood. 

When knights pledged allegiance or showed deep respect, they’d kneel - often on the left knee - as a symbol of loyalty, honour and commitment. 

Over time, this evolved into a romantic gesture symbolising devotion and the hope of a shared future.

So, kneeling to propose is less about strict rules and more about embracing tradition. It’s a powerful non-verbal cue that you’re offering your heart - and asking someone to be your partner for life.

Is it always the left knee?

While the traditional answer is the left knee, many people today propose from whichever side feels natural or comfortable.

And honestly? It doesn’t matter which knee you kneel on - what matters is the intent behind it.

Whether you kneel on your right knee, left knee, or stay standing, your partner is unlikely to even notice which knee you choose to propose on.

Do you have to get down on one knee to propose?

Nope. While it’s still the most common gesture, proposals have become wonderfully creative and personal. 

Some couples skip the kneel altogether, especially when the moment calls for something unique or spontaneous.

Maybe you're proposing mid-hike, during a tandem skydive, or simply curled up on the sofa together. The one-knee tradition is lovely - but not mandatory.

When proposing, what knee do you get on?

So let’s recap, if you’re still frantically searching about how to plan the perfect, fairy tale propose (we see you):

• What knee do you get down on to propose? → Left knee
• What knee do you kneel on when proposing? → Traditionally, the left
• When you propose, what knee do you go down on? → Yep, still the left
• On what knee do you propose? → You guessed it: the left

But again - it’s the gesture, not the leg, that counts.

What to Say When You Propose

Whether you're down on one knee or not, many people feel nervous about what to say when they propose. Our advice? Speak from the heart. Here are a few things to include:

• Why you love them
• How they make you feel
• A special memory you share
• What you're excited about in the future
• The big question: "Will you marry me?"

Keep it personal and true to you - there's no need for a grand speech unless that feels right.

Wedding Proposal Ideas in the UK

If you’re still planning how to pop the question, we’ve got you covered. From quiet, intimate settings to show-stopping surprises, we have a whole article on amazing proposal ideas.