lay it on the line
phrase
informal
: to speak very honestly and directly to someone
Let me lay it on the line (to/for you): if your work doesn't improve, you'll be fired.
Video
Lay vs. Lie
Editor Emily Brewster clarifies the difference.
Cite this Entry
“Lay it on the line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lay%20it%20on%20the%20line. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.
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