why do we say knife and fork (in that order) rather then fork and knife?

Answer 1

Probably because it sounds better and over time we get used to saying things in a particular way/order
the knife was invented well before the fork so maybe it`s something to do with that as well

Answer 2

The wording sequence was initially made by the mother/father/person who first introduced us to the knife and fork, or the fork and knife. A habit is very hard to break.

Answer 3

Because "can I have a knife and fork" sounds more polite than saying "Can I have a fork´n knife"

Answer 4

It's just the way it rolls off the tongue--knife is a longer sounding word--it extends the 'fffff' sound. By ending it with a shorter sounding syllable like fork--the 'k' sound is cut short--it is easier to end a sentence in that way--it's natural for pairs of words to be positioned in that order.

Answer 5

cos first things first, u cut with the knife b4 u pick an finally eat with the fork

Answer 6

When you set your table the knife is first, closet to your plate on the right. The fork goes on the left side closest to your plate.
But why we refer to it that way I do not know.

Answer 7

For the same reason we say fish and chips, salt and vinegar, etc. It's just convention - man-made. Say fork and knife if you want to. No harm done.

Answer 8

I believe that this order reflects the order we introduced the tools to our table manners. People just out of caves were using knives. Fork is a late invention...

Answer 9

because if you say fork n knife it sounds like your swearing. ie pass thr fork n knife.

Answer 10

i have to admit saying fork n knife sounds better.