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knifepoint

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at gunpoint

Also, at knifepoint. Under coercion, as in I'm going to hold him at gunpoint for that raise he promised me last year. Both these phrases were at first used literally and later also figuratively. [Mid-1900s]

at gunpoint

Under or as if under the threat of being shot.

at knifepoint

Under threat of being stabbed or cut with a knife: was mugged at knifepoint.

See also: knifepoint