Stay your hand

Pro Tip 1/3

Archaic Usage

Understand that 'stay your hand' is old-fashioned and not commonly used in modern conversation.

In a historical novel, a character might say, 'I almost sought revenge, but I stayed my hand.'

Pro Tip 2/3

Literal vs. Figurative

'Stay your hand' can mean physically stopping your hand or stopping your action metaphorically.

Metaphorically: 'Seeing the children play, he stayed his hand from scolding them.'

Pro Tip 3/3

Moment of Hesitation

The phrase often indicates a moment of hesitation before deciding not to do something.

She raised her hand in annoyance but stayed her hand, deciding it wasn't worth the trouble.