Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

he has laid

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he has laid" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone has placed something down or set something in a particular position in the past, with relevance to the present. Example: "He has laid the groundwork for a successful project by conducting thorough research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

He has laid off three employees.

News & Media

The New York Times

But he has laid out no alternative.

News & Media

The New York Times

He has laid it all out for everyone.

News & Media

The New York Times

The budget is busted, he has laid off cops, and crime is climbing.

News & Media

The New York Times

Senator Kerry has not yet proposed specific legislation, but he has laid out sound principles.

News & Media

The New York Times

The dimmer of the animal population believe he has laid a carrot.

In doing so, he has laid bare the work's anarchy, savagery and wit.

He has laid groundwork that will benefit our players and company into the future".

But he insists he has laid a good foundation for recovery.

News & Media

The New York Times

Now he has laid claim to what he hopes will be another trophy: Saturn.

News & Media

The New York Times

He has laid out boldly the Brussels-bound path he wants to take.

News & Media

The New Yorker
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he has laid" to describe planning or strategy, ensure the context clearly indicates what was created or set in place. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "he has laid" when a simpler verb like "placed" or "put" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound stilted or overly formal.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

91%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he has laid" functions primarily as a verb phrase in the perfect tense. It indicates that a male subject has completed the action of laying something down or establishing something at a point in the past that has relevance to the present. Ludwig confirms this usage in its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he has laid" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe actions completed by a male subject, with implications ranging from physical placement to strategic planning. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. When writing, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey, as the word "laid" can imply everything from foundation-building to blame assignment. While not overly formal, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various professional and informative contexts. The best writing practice is to use it clearly and appropriately, avoiding over-reliance on this single phrasing when simpler alternatives might improve clarity.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "he has laid" when referring to setting something down?

Alternatives include "he placed" or "he set down", depending on the context and level of formality you wish to convey.

How can I use "he has laid" when discussing plans or strategies?

In such contexts, "he has laid" suggests establishing a foundation or plan. For example, "he has laid out a plan" implies a detailed strategy has been created.

Is "he has laid" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "he has laid" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing the establishment of something significant. However, consider whether a simpler verb would be more effective.

What is the difference between "he has laid" and "he has put"?

"He has laid" often implies a careful and deliberate placement or establishment, while "he has put" is more general and can refer to any placement, whether careful or not.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

91%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: