where this lies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "where this lies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the location or position of something, either literally or metaphorically, in a discussion or analysis. Example: "In the context of our debate, it's important to clarify where this lies in relation to our main argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

I don't know where this lie has come around that girls are emotional and boys aren't.

The Guardian

"I and many of my colleagues understand where this line lies, and we are not going to cross it," he told the Interfax news agency.

The New York Times

In order to figure out where this difference lies, a post hoc test is required.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

In order to figure out where this difference lies, a post hoc ANOVA test is required.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

Where this balance lies may depend on genetic [ 7], epidemiological [ 8- 11] or environmental factors [ 12, 13].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Where this stalk lies over an alary muscle, integrin accumulates at the site of contact, in addition to the normal contact distal to the tip cell nucleus with the adjacent, more posterior alary muscle.

Developmental Cell

This is where the lies began: "No one is born this way," and "homosexuals are sinners and they will burn in hell".

Huffington Post

Anyway, I am copying them both to see where this might lie.

Vice

This is where the lies and embellishments creep into some asylum seekers' narratives.

The New York Times

It's in this where lies the cold fact that Sam Allardyce is the Brexit of football management choices.

Vice

"I don't understand where the public interest in this lies," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "where this lies" to precisely indicate where a problem, solution, or responsibility can be found. This adds clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "where this lies" when referring to physical locations if a more direct term is available. It's more suitable for abstract concepts or intricate situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "where this lies" functions as a relative clause, often introducing information about the location—literal or figurative—of a particular issue, responsibility, or key element. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "where this lies" functions as a relative clause used to pinpoint the location—literal or figurative—of an issue, responsibility, or key element. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct. While relatively infrequent, it appears in varied contexts. Semantically related phrases include "where the truth resides", "where the responsibility rests", and "where the key lies". Writers should use it when precision is needed in specifying the location of an abstract concept or intricate situation, avoiding its use for simple physical locations. Overall, "where this lies" is best suited for formal writing that requires clarity and precision in identifying the crux of a matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

where the challenge lies

Specifically identifies the main difficulty or obstacle.

where the key lies

Highlights the element that unlocks a solution or understanding.

where the heart of the matter lies

Emphasizes the core or most important aspect of a situation.

where the responsibility rests

Specifically pinpoints who is accountable for something.

where the secret resides

Suggests a hidden or unknown aspect is to be found.

where the truth resides

Focuses specifically on uncovering the truth rather than a general location or essence.

where the problem stems from

Focuses on the origin or root cause of an issue.

where the focus should be

Directs attention to a particular area or point of interest.

where the source is located

Directly refers to finding the origin or location of something.

the area of focus

This emphasizes what aspect to focus attention on.

FAQs

How can I use "where this lies" in a sentence?

You can use "where this lies" to indicate the location of a problem, responsibility, or key element in a situation. For example, "The core of the issue is "where this lies": in the lack of communication." If you were using the wrong construction and wish to get to the root of it, it's also common usage.

What are some alternatives to "where this lies"?

Alternatives include "where the problem stems from", "where the responsibility rests", or "where the key lies", depending on the specific context.

Is "where this lies" formal or informal?

"Where this lies" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in formal writing where precision is important.

Can "where this lies" refer to abstract concepts?

Yes, "where this lies" is often used to refer to abstract concepts such as the source of a conflict, the essence of an argument, or the location of a solution.