Lay down the law meaning, examples, and how natives say it

informal10K+

UK//leɪ daʊn ðə lɔː//US//leɪ daʊn ðə lɔ//

Meaning of Lay down the law

To assert rules or demands in a forceful manner.

In simple words: To tell people what they must do or what rules they must follow.

Lay down the law in a sentence

The manager decided to lay down the law about punctuality in the office.
When the kids misbehaved, their father laid down the law regarding screen time.
The politician laid down the law on the new environmental regulations.
After the confusion among staff, the director had to lay down the law clearly.
During the meeting, she laid down the law on how projects should be managed.

How to use Lay down the law

Use in informal contexts to describe asserting authority or establishing rules. Avoid in very formal situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine a judge laying down a big book of laws.

Related words

Collocations with Lay down the law

lay down the law clearly
lay down the law firmly
lay down the law quickly
lay down the law to someone
lay down the law about something

Synonyms for Lay down the law

establish rules
set limits
assert authority
enforce regulations
dictate terms

Common mistakes with Lay down the law

Confused with 'lay down' as in to recline.
Used too formally in serious contexts.
Misused as a statement of opinion rather than authority.

Lay down the law appears in

1396

S1 E4

Lay down the law in other languages

More chunks like Lay down the law

People also search for

Lay down the law meaning
meaning of Lay down the law
Lay down the law definition
define Lay down the law
what does Lay down the law mean
Lay down the law means
how to use Lay down the law

Frequently asked questions about Lay down the law

What does Lay down the law mean?

To tell people what they must do or what rules they must follow.

What is the definition of Lay down the law?

To assert rules or demands in a forceful manner.

How do you use Lay down the law in a sentence?

The manager decided to lay down the law about punctuality in the office.

Can you give another example of Lay down the law?

When the kids misbehaved, their father laid down the law regarding screen time.

What are synonyms for Lay down the law?

Common alternatives include establish rules, set limits, assert authority, enforce regulations, dictate terms.

What words go with Lay down the law?

It commonly pairs with lay down the law clearly, lay down the law firmly, lay down the law quickly, lay down the law to someone, lay down the law about something.

What are common mistakes when using Lay down the law?

Confused with 'lay down' as in to recline. Used too formally in serious contexts. Misused as a statement of opinion rather than authority.

How do you pronounce Lay down the law?

US: //leɪ daʊn ðə lɔ//, UK: //leɪ daʊn ðə lɔː//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Lay down the law formal or informal?

"Lay down the law" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Lay down the law?