# lay into

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lay-into
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to criticize or attack someone harshly, often in a public or confrontational way.

For teachers: to criticize or attack someone forcefully, often in a public or confrontational manner; typically used in contexts involving verbal reprimand or aggressive behavior.

## Examples

- The teacher laid into the student for cheating.
- During the meeting, the manager laid into the employee for missing the deadline.
- The senator, known for his fiery speeches, laid into the opposition with such intensity that the audience was left stunned.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He laid the employee for the mistake." but "He laid into the employee for the mistake." — the particle 'into' is required to indicate the act of criticizing.

## Usage notes

- typically followed by a person or group being criticized.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'scold' (more mild) and 'berate' (more intense); 'lay into' implies a more aggressive or public form of criticism.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.