lay down the law meaning?

Question

What is the meaning of "to lay down the law" idiom?

Answer 1

 

Idiom Conjugations:

 

Answer 2

Gerund Form of the Idiom:

Laying down the law requires a strong will and determination.
 

Answer 3

Idiom Usage:

Use this idiom when you want to convey a sense of authority or sternness.
 

Answer 4

Idiom Scenario 2:

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Grace has had enough with Ned's gambling.  She has watched him lose money time and time again.  She wants Ned to quit gambling.  She has asked Ned many times to quit gambling.  Now it is time for Grace to...

lay down the law.

Again, there is usually some form of threat or consequence to non-compliance.  In this case, Grace may tell Ned that he must choose either her or gambling.

Answer 5

Idiom Scenario 1:

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Johnny's bedroom is a mess.   There is dirty laundry and garbage and dirty dishes everywhere.  Johnny's room has been a mess for more than a week.  Johnny's mother has asked Johnny many times to clean his room.  Johnny has not complied.  It is time for Johnny's mother to...

lay down the law.

In this case laying down the law would imply some sort of consequences.  For example, if Johnny does not clean his room, then his mother will take away his video games.

Answer 6

Idiom Definition:

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"to lay down the law"

to very strongly tell people what they must do, usually without regard for the opinion or feelings of other people
 

Synonyms:
appoint, authorize, command, compel, decree, demand, dictate, direct, exact, impose, inflict, insist, instruct, oblige, ordain, order, proclaim, require, rule, set, tell
 
 
Literally, laying down the law. - - - - ->