lie in wait

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'lie in wait' is correct and usable in written English.
It means to remain hidden and watchful, typically in order to ambush or surprise someone. You can use it when you want to describe a situation where someone is waiting and watching for the opportunity to act. For example: The hunter lay in wait for his prey, watching for the deer to come through the thicket.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They lie in wait.

The Economist

Other hurdles lie in wait.

The New York Times

Aberdeen or Celtic will lie in wait.

The Guardian - Sport

Highway bandits lie in wait for them.

The New York Times

These migrations are when fishermen lie in wait.

The Economist

They lie in wait in the second gallery.

The New York Times - Arts

Figaro is furious, but he continues to lie in wait.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Critics lie in wait poised to tear you down.

The New York Times - Books

A busy few months lie in wait for Frederik.

The Guardian

Nevertheless, the difficulties that lie in wait are huge.

The Guardian - Opinion

The seeds lie in wait for just the right moment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lie in wait" to vividly describe a scenario where someone is intentionally concealed, anticipating a specific moment or opportunity to act, especially in contexts involving surprise or potential conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "lie in lying" as it is grammatically incorrect and nonsensical. "Lie in wait" is the correct idiom to describe the act of waiting in a hidden place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lie in wait" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of remaining hidden, watchful, and ready to ambush or attack. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound and commonly used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lie in wait" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase that describes the action of remaining hidden and watchful, typically to ambush or surprise someone. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Wiki and Encyclopedia sources. While it can appear in more formal contexts, it's generally considered neutral in register. When writing, remember that the phrase evokes a sense of anticipation and potential danger, but avoid confusing it with the incorrect phrase "lie in lying". Consider using synonyms like "ambush" or "lurk" to adjust the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lie in ambush

It has the same meaning but includes the "lie" verb.

lay in ambush

A more formal and descriptive alternative, emphasizing the planned nature of the waiting.

lie in hiding

Emphasizes the act of being concealed, rather than the anticipation of action.

ambush

This is a more direct and aggressive alternative, focusing on the act of attacking unexpectedly.

lurk

Implies a more sinister or secretive waiting, often with negative connotations.

await in hiding

Suggests a more passive form of waiting, emphasizing anticipation.

lie low

Focuses on remaining hidden to avoid detection, rather than necessarily waiting to attack.

be on the watch

Focuses on vigilance and observation while waiting for something to happen.

keep vigil

Implies a more prolonged and dedicated period of watching and waiting.

lie doggo

An informal term implying a complete cessation of activity while remaining hidden.

FAQs

How can I use "lie in wait" in a sentence?

You can use "lie in wait" to describe someone or something that is hiding and waiting to ambush or attack. For example: "The predator would "lie in wait" for its prey near the watering hole."

What is a synonym for "lie in wait"?

Synonyms for "lie in wait" include "ambush", "lurk", "lay in ambush", or "lie in hiding". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "lay in wait" instead of "lie in wait"?

"Lay in wait" is sometimes used, but "lie in wait" is the more grammatically standard and commonly accepted form. "Lay" is the past tense of "lie", so it's important to use "lie" in the present tense construction.

What's the difference between "lie in wait" and "wait in ambush"?

"Lie in wait" emphasizes the hidden aspect of waiting, while "wait in ambush" highlights the planned attack. While similar, ""lie in wait"" implies more secrecy and concealment before the action.