lay down the law
Meaning(s)
1. scold somebody or forcefully tell them what to do
Popularity
High
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
lay down the law to your students
Analysis
This expression means to rebuke or order people about without care for their feelings or opinions. However, it is not always used in a negative context. When a figure of authority, like a boss, parent, teacher etc. 'lays down the law,' it is often done for benefit of the recipient or for the greater good. It can be used in both a social and professional setting, though the latter is more common. A similar expression is 'crack the whip.'
Social Examples (Basic)
- I used to play video games with my friends all day until my mother laid down the law to me and said that if I didn't get my act together I'd be out the door.
- When I started on the team our trainer laid down the law. If we missed practice we couldn't play.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- As a teacher, you can't let your students walk all over you. You have to lay down the law to them.
- She's only been working here a month, yet she thinks she has the right to go round laying down the law to everyone.