ENGLISH
REFERENCE

lay something at the feet of

idiom
Meaning

To assign responsibility for (something) to (someone).


Examples
SIMPLE

They lay the blame at the feet of the manager.

CONTEXTUAL

After the project failed, the board chose to lay the responsibility at the feet of the lead developer.

COMPLEX

Critics often lay the systemic failures of the industry at the feet of those who refuse to adapt to modern regulations.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little of something goes a long way

    Only a small amount of something is usually required to produce a great effect.

  2. 02

    a wild goose never laid a tame egg

    Most things are inherited and predetermined.

  3. 03

    beat feet

    To run.

  4. 04

    best laid plans

    A proverbial expression used to signify the futility of making detailed plans when the ability to fully or even partially execute them is uncertain.

  5. 05

    chalk something up to experience

    To take a lesson from a bad outcome instead of grieving it.

  6. 06

    drag one's feet

    To procrastinate, put off; to dawdle, avoid, or make progress slowly and reluctantly.

  7. 07

    feet first

    In the manner of a deceased person (i.e., dead).

  8. 08

    feet of clay

    In someone apparently strong and without failings, a hidden weakness which could lead to downfall.

Last updated April 17, 2026