Lay into

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phrasal verb

To verbally attack someone, criticize harshly.

The boss laid into me for not finishing the report on time.
Visual representation of "lay into" - To verbally attack someone, criticize harshly

Often appears as...

  • lay into someone
  • lay into him

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "lay into"
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Emotional Intensity

Used to express strong emotions, usually anger or frustration, in a confrontational scenario.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
After the error, the coach laid into the team at halftime.
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Colloquial Use

Common in spoken language and informal writing, but avoid using in formal or professional documents.

Illustration for Colloquial Use
She laid into me for spoiling the movie plot.
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Figurative Language

It's a metaphorical expression, meaning the confrontation isn't necessarily physical.

Illustration for Figurative Language
During the debate, he laid into his opponent's policies brutally.
Visual representation of the word "Lay into"

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