lay hold of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lay hold of" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to indicate gaining control of something. For example, "She laid hold of the situation by organizing a meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The term is derived from a Greek word meaning "able to lay hold of".

The Economist

Where traditional criticism lay hold of a work from without, the theoretical, philosophico-psychoanalytico-linguistic enterprise lay hold of the atomic structure or the DNA of a "text," replicated it, transformed it, even improved on it (right).

The New Yorker

As closed-mouthedly as possible, she grabs at whatever rung she can lay hold of while in free fall.

The New Yorker

(Price is, of course, meant to judge her unsound, so that Gates's employers can lay hold of her shares).

The New Yorker

Then I just drank everything I could lay hold of in the evening, about six litres of electrolytes, and I felt great on Thursday for some reason.

The Guardian - Sport

He went on, "It seems these are the creature's arms, and, it is said, if they were to lay hold of the largest man-of-war, they would pull it down to the bottom".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

As two people lay hold to either end of a cow, contending she is theirs, and pull in opposing directions- the lawyer milks the cow, and leaves the on-going struggle with a full bucket.

Huffington Post

A significant proportion of doctors, pharmacists and lay people hold negative perceptions of generic medicines.

BMJ Open

Our review used widely accepted methodology to evaluate the literature, and identified that a significant proportion of medical professionals and lay people hold negative perceptions of generic medicines.

BMJ Open

These people won't stop their work in unfairly vilifying the American Muslim community, but really, how long can that leaky bucket of lies hold water?

Huffington Post

There are also medical schemas of understanding influenced by medical knowledge that have everyday significance in general society and that lay people hold.

BMC Family Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lay hold of" when you want to emphasize the act of seizing, obtaining, or understanding something, either physically or metaphorically.

Common error

Ensure you use the correct tense of "lay hold of". It's common to mix up "lay" and "lie". Remember that "lay" requires an object, while "lie" does not. For example, use "laid hold of" for past tense, not "lied hold of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lay hold of" functions as a verb phrase. It typically indicates the act of seizing, grasping, or obtaining something, either physically or metaphorically. Ludwig indicates it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lay hold of" is a versatile verb phrase meaning to seize, grasp, or obtain something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a grammatically sound and usable phrase in written English. While it sees consistent use across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki, its usage leans towards a slightly more formal or literary style. Related alternatives include "seize", "grasp", and "obtain". When using this phrase, be mindful of verb tense and consider if a more direct synonym might be more suitable for your specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seize

This alternative is more direct and forceful, implying a sudden and decisive action to take control.

grasp

This implies understanding or mentally taking hold of an idea or concept, as well as physically taking hold of something.

capture

Suggests gaining possession, often through effort or skill, and can imply overcoming resistance.

get a grip on

Idiomatic phrase indicating control or understanding of a situation or oneself.

obtain

This focuses on acquiring or getting something, often through effort or planning.

acquire

Similar to obtain, but may imply a gradual or formal process of gaining something.

take possession of

More formal and legalistic, implying ownership or control.

snatch

Implies a quick and sometimes forceful taking of something.

get your hands on

Informal expression indicating obtaining or acquiring something, often with enthusiasm.

clutch

Suggests holding something tightly, often out of fear or desperation.

FAQs

How can I use "lay hold of" in a sentence?

You can use "lay hold of" to describe physically grasping something, as in "He managed to "lay hold of" the rope before falling". It can also mean to obtain something, like "They sought to "lay hold of" new opportunities".

What are some alternatives to "lay hold of"?

Alternatives include "seize", "grasp", or "obtain". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "lay hold of" formal or informal?

"Lay hold of" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it tends to have a slightly more archaic or literary feel compared to more direct alternatives like "grab" or "get". Its appropriateness depends on the overall tone of your writing.

What is the difference between "lay hold of" and "take hold of"?

While similar, "take hold of" generally suggests a more deliberate or intentional action, whereas "lay hold of" can imply a more opportunistic or sudden grasping. The subtle difference depends on the context but their meanings overlap to a great extent.