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Lay down the law

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Assertive Tone

The phrase often suggests the speaker is asserting control or authority in a situation.

Illustration for Assertive Tone
The captain decided to lay down the law before the ship set sail.
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Not Always Negative

Though it may sound strict, it can also mean setting clear, needed guidelines.

Illustration for Not Always Negative
The teacher laid down the law about plagiarism in her class.
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Not Literal Law

The 'law' refers to rules or standards, not actual legal laws.

Illustration for Not Literal Law
The camp counselor had to lay down the law about lights out times.
Visual representation of the word "Lay down the law"

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