lay down the law
Meaning
To state rules or orders firmly and authoritatively, leaving little or no room for argument.
Origin
Recorded from the mid-1800s. It draws on the image of a legislator or judge “laying down” (setting out) the law—i.e., declaring binding rules that others must follow.
Notes
Often implies a stern, no-nonsense tone (sometimes overly strict). Common for parents/bosses setting rules or limits; can sound authoritarian.
Examples
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After the third late arrival this week, the manager laid down the law about punctuality.
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Before the road trip, Mom laid down the law: no loud music after midnight.
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The referee laid down the law early, warning both teams that rough play wouldn’t be tolerated.
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Our landlord laid down the law and said any unpaid rent would lead to eviction.
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When the meeting got chaotic, Priya laid down the law and assigned clear roles to everyone.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “lay down the law (on someone)” or “lay down the law about/on (something).” Verb can inflect: laid down the law, laying down the law. The phrase is fairly fixed.
Synonyms
- put your foot down
- lay down the rules
- set the ground rules
- draw a line in the sand
Antonyms
- go easy on
- be flexible
- let it slide