What are the definitions of “lie with”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Have the right to make a decision.
The decision about the contract LIES WITH the courts.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lie with”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lie with is to have the responsibility or authority to make a decision. It means that the power to decide something is in the hands of a person or group.
What are the different verb forms of “lie with”?
| Root Verb | lie with |
| Third Person Singular Present | lies with |
| Present Participle | lying with |
| Simple Past | lay with |
| Past Participle | lain with |
Example
The final decision lies with the manager.
Example
The responsibility for the project lies with the team leader.
Example
The choice of the new logo is lying with the marketing department.
Example
The decision lay with the committee, and they chose the best option.
Example
The authority to approve the budget has always lain with the board of directors.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lie with”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“lie with” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The responsibility lies with the government.
Example
The decision lies with the courts.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“lie with” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The responsibility lies with the government.
Example
The decision lies with the courts.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lie with”?
Good things to know
Does “lie with” have an informal or formal tone?
Lie with is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or legal discussions.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “lie with”?
Synonyms
- rest with
- depend on
- be up to
- be the responsibility of
- be in the hands of
Antonyms
- disclaim responsibility
- avoid responsibility
- shirk responsibility
- pass the buck
