Lay down the law, to
Lay down the law, to: To pontificate; to give orders or make dogmatic statements. Lay down here means simply to “make,” and the expression today is often used ironically, since it rarely involves an actual legislator, or even an authority. It still did in 1765, however, when Blackstone’s Commentaries stated, “We may now . . . lay down the law of redress against public oppression.”
Similar Terms & Expressions
- Put your foot down: To be authoritative or adamant about something.
- Call the shots: To be in charge, make the decisions.
- Rule the roost: To be the boss, the one in charge.
- Lord it over: To act as if one is superior to others.
- Crack the whip: To enforce rules strictly and with authority.
Synonyms
- Dictate
- Command
- Preside
- Authoritative
Antonyms
- Relinquish
- Submit
- Yield
- Comply
Quotes & Proverbs
- “He who wants to speak well must lay a foundation.” – Quintilian
- “Authority without wisdom is like a heavy axe without an edge.” – Anne Bradstreet
- “To lay down the law is not as hard as making sure everyone follows it.” - V. T. Veritologist
Recommended Literature, Music, and Films
- Book: 12 Rules for Life by Jordan B. Peterson – A modern guide to commanding with conviction and ethics.
- Film: A Few Good Men (1992) – Tom Cruise “lays down the law” in court with memorable zeal.
- Music: “Authority Song” by John Mellencamp – A catchy tune about defying authority and laying one’s own rules.
- Poetry: If by Rudyard Kipling – Timeless advice on leadership and virtues, akin to commandment-like verses.
### Which of these means to give an authoritative command?
- [x] Lay down the law
- [ ] Feather the nest
- [ ] Tick the box
- [ ] Flip the bird
> **Explanation:** "Lay down the law" signifies giving an authoritative command. The other options? Delightfully off-topic!
### Which phrase is synonymous with "lay down the law"?
- [ ] Beat around the bush
- [x] Put your foot down
- [ ] Jump the gun
- [ ] Paddle your own canoe
> **Explanation:** "Put your foot down" aligns in meaning with "lay down the law" – both signify authoritative actions.
### True or False: "Claim the crop" is a common expression meaning to give orders.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** "Claim the crop" does not exist as an idiomatic expression for giving orders. Nice try!
Remember, as you “lay down the law,” blend stern wisdom with resonant empathy to inspire constructive leadership. It’s not just about the dictates but building bridges with every decree.
Be the kind of person who can lay down the law and still inspire others to rise above it. 🌟
— A. N. Dortorical, October 2023
