Pronunciation: [kɹˈɔːlz ˌɒn ˈɔːl fˈɔːz] (IPA) 
The phrase "crawls on all fours" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /krɔːlz ɒn ɔːl fɔːz/. The first sound is a long "o" followed by a "r" and "l" sound. The "z" at the end of "fours" is pronounced as a voiceless "s" sound. The IPA helps to accurately transcribe the sounds in words and can assist language learners in improving their pronunciation skills.
The phrase "crawls on all fours" refers to the act of moving on one's hands and knees, imitating the gait and posture of a quadruped animal. It describes the specific motion of individuals, typically human babies or toddlers in the early stages of their physical development, as they use their hands and knees to propel themselves across a surface.
The phrase "on all fours" indicates the position of the body, with all four limbs touching the ground simultaneously. This method of locomotion involves a coordinated effort between the upper extremities (hands) and the lower extremities (knees), allowing for a stable and balanced position to distribute weight evenly.
The action of crawling on all fours serves multiple purposes during human development. It enables infants to explore their surroundings, aiding in their motor skill development and spatial awareness. Crawling on all fours also helps strengthen and tone muscles, particularly those in the arms, shoulders, and legs, which are essential for further physical development and eventually walking upright.
While primarily associated with humans during their early stages of life, the term "crawls on all fours" can also be metaphorically used to describe the motion of certain animals or individuals who are imitating the movement of animals. It emphasizes the position of these creatures, moving with their limbs in contact with the ground, mimicking quadrupeds' behavior.
