lie low

USAGE SUMMARY

"lie low" is a common expression in written English.
It is usually used as a command to tell someone to stay out of sight or to remain quiet. For example: "Lie low until the police have left the area".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Lie low during July.

The New Yorker

Others lie low for decades.

The New Yorker

But you can lie low".

The New York Times

I chose to lie low".

The New York Times

Go on like normal or lie low?

The New York Times

"When things get hot, they lie low.

The New York Times

She would lie low for a while in Toulouse.

The Guardian

For a while, he had to lie low.

The New Yorker

Will we mumble apologies, lie low, try to atone?

The New York Times - Magazine

Smothers went to lie low in Frankfort, Kentucky.

The New Yorker

One thing he cannot do is lie low.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lie low" when you want to advise someone to avoid attention, especially when they might be in danger or facing scrutiny. It suggests a temporary retreat from visibility.

Common error

Don't use "lie low" when you mean someone is simply inactive or lazy. "Lie low" implies a deliberate choice to avoid detection or conflict, not just a lack of action. It's about strategic withdrawal, not general inertia.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lie low" functions as an intransitive verb phrase, meaning it doesn't take a direct object. It is used to describe the action of concealing oneself or remaining out of sight to avoid detection or trouble. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in this manner.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lie low" is a very common phrase that advises or describes the action of avoiding attention or detection. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its primary context is News & Media, indicating its relevance in describing real-world situations where discretion is important. While alternatives like ""keep a low profile"" exist, "lie low" maintains a specific connotation of temporary withdrawal to avoid immediate issues. It's crucial not to confuse this strategic retreat with simple inactivity, as "lie low" always implies a purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep a low profile

Focuses on maintaining a discreet presence, minimizing visibility.

stay under the radar

Highlights avoiding notice or detection, especially by authorities.

stay out of sight

Directly indicates avoiding being seen.

remain inconspicuous

Emphasizes blending in and not drawing attention.

avoid detection

Highlights the act of preventing someone from discovering your presence or activities.

go into hiding

Suggests a more active effort to conceal oneself.

keep out of the limelight

Specifically avoids public attention or fame.

disappear from view

Indicates a complete removal from public awareness.

bide your time

Implies waiting patiently and strategically before acting.

play it cool

Focuses on acting calmly and collectedly to avoid suspicion.

FAQs

How to use "lie low" in a sentence?

You can use "lie low" to advise someone to avoid attention. For example, "After the scandal, it's best to "keep a low profile" and "lie low" for a while".

What can I say instead of "lie low"?

You can use alternatives like ""keep a low profile"", "stay under the radar", or "remain inconspicuous" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "lie low" or "lay low"?

"Lie low" is the correct form when referring to concealing oneself. "Lay" requires a direct object, while "lie" means to recline or be in a horizontal position. Thus, "lie low" is the correct usage for this idiom.

What's the difference between "lie low" and "bide your time"?

"Lie low" focuses on avoiding detection or attention, while "bide your time" refers to waiting patiently for the right moment to act. You can "lie low" to avoid trouble and "bide your time" to prepare for an opportunity.