lay of the land, lay low, lay hands on

Formal and Informal Expressions of lay

In different contexts, you can replace 'lay' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'place, position' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'put, stick' is a commonplace synonym.

lay: Explore its Definition & Usage

lay Definition

1to put something down in a flat position
2to produce eggs as a female bird or reptile
3to prepare a dead body for burial

Using lay: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lay" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He lay the book on the table.
Example
The hen will lay an egg every day.
Example
The funeral director will lay the deceased to rest.

lay Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for lay

Antonyms for lay

Phrases with lay

lay of the land
the general situation or state of affairs in a particular area or with regard to a particular topic
Example
Before starting the project, it's important to get the lay of the land and understand the challenges we may face.
lay low
to keep a low profile or stay hidden in order to avoid detection or trouble
Example
After the scandal broke out, the politician decided to lay low for a while.
lay hands on
to find or obtain something, often something that is difficult to locate or acquire
Example
I've been trying to lay my hands on a copy of that book for months.

Origins of lay

from Old English 'lecgan', meaning 'to place or put down'

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Summary: lay in Brief

The verb 'lay' [leɪ] means to put something down in a flat position, to produce eggs as a female bird or reptile, or to prepare a dead body for burial. It can be used in phrases like 'lay of the land,' referring to the general situation, or 'lay low,' meaning to keep a low profile. 'Lay hands on' means to find or obtain something.