lay that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lay that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to place or set something down, often in a figurative sense. Example: "Please lay that document on my desk when you're finished with it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

They helped to lay that groundwork, too.

The New Yorker

"Lay that flattering unction to your soul, good Tonni".

The New Yorker

As the cards lay, that would have failed.

The New York Times - Arts

"Today we join together in common cause," he said, "to lay that fallacy to rest".

The New York Times

"If we're going to back up from solar, who do we lay that blame on?" Mr. Wertz said, describing Xcel.

The New York Times

For every angry ghost, there is a ritual for the dead intended to lay that ghost to rest.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Sometimes delusion lies that way; sometimes not.

The New Yorker

There are lies that have short legs, and lies that have long noses.

The New Yorker

I can't lie, that sounds terrible.

The Guardian

"Outright lies, that is not true".

The Guardian

"'The lies that were said in that room,'" he said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lay that" to assign blame, ensure the context is clear to avoid misinterpretation. Consider using more specific verbs like "attribute" or "assign" for clarity.

Common error

A common mistake is using "lay" when "lie" is required. Remember, "lay" takes a direct object (something is being laid down), while "lie" does not (a person or thing lies down). For example, use "I lay that book on the table" but "I lie down to rest".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "lay that" varies depending on context. It can act as a transitive verb phrase instructing the placement of an object, or idiomatically, to attribute responsibility. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

15%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lay that" is a versatile phrase with several distinct meanings. It can refer to the physical act of placing something, the attribution of blame or responsibility, or the act of dismissing an idea. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives might be suitable for certain contexts. When using "lay that", be aware of the potential for confusion with "lie", and ensure clarity in your writing to avoid misinterpretation. The phrase is very common in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

place that

Direct synonym for physically setting something down.

put that

A more general synonym for placing or setting something.

set that

Similar to put, but often implies a more deliberate action.

attribute that

Focuses on assigning cause or responsibility.

assign that

Similar to attribute, but can be used for tasks or duties.

ascribe that

Similar to attribute, often used in formal contexts.

pin that

Implies assigning blame or responsibility directly.

dismiss that

Stronger form of disregard, suggesting rejection.

disregard that

Implies dismissing or ignoring something.

charge that

Used to express accusing someone of something.

FAQs

How can I use "lay that" in a sentence?

You can use "lay that" to mean to place something down, as in "Lay that book on the desk". It can also mean to attribute something to someone, as in "I lay that mistake at your feet". Additionally, it can mean to dismiss or end something, such as "Let's "lay that matter to rest"".

What's the difference between "lay that" and "lie there"?

"Lay that" means to place something down, implying an action performed on an object. "Lie there" means to be in a resting position, without an object being acted upon. For example, you might "lay that blanket on the bed" so someone can "lie there".

What does it mean to "lay that at someone's door"?

To "lay that at someone's door" means to attribute blame or responsibility to that person. It's an idiom that suggests someone is being held accountable for something.

Are there more formal alternatives to "lay that"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use more formal alternatives such as "attribute that", "assign that", or "place that". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you wish to convey.