Lay it on the line

usgb
verb

To tell someone something clearly or honestly even if it is unpleasant.

He laid it on the line and told her that she needed to start taking her responsibilities more seriously.
Visual representation of "lay it on the line" - To tell someone something clearly or honestly even if it is unpleasant

Often appears as...

  • lay it on the line and tell
  • lay it on the line by saying

Usage tips

Neutral

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "lay it on the line"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Strong Emphasis

Used to emphasize the seriousness of the conversation or the truth being told.

Illustration for Strong Emphasis
I need to lay it on the line: your performance has not been good enough.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Potential Discomfort

The phrase often precedes information that might be hard for the listener to hear.

Illustration for Potential Discomfort
To lay it on the line, your attitude has been causing problems.
LampPro Tip 3/3

No Sugarcoating

The speaker is being direct, not softening the message.

Illustration for No Sugarcoating
She's going to lay it on the line about the team's future.
Visual representation of the word "Lay it on the line"

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