lay by
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle by
Meanings
Store something for use at a later time
Why “by”? Move it just to one side, out of the main flow, to keep for later.
“We laid by supplies for winter.”
“They laid by firewood before the cold months.”
Don't confuse with
Lay by means store something for use at a later time. Lay aside means save money or items for future use.
Test yourself
“We laid by supplies for winter.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
lay aside
A contrast learners often mix up
Save money or items for future use
put by
Same by pattern: reserve
Set aside money or supplies for future use
lay down
Same base verb: lay
Put something carefully onto a flat surface; State a rule or principle clearly; Sacrifice or give up something, especially one's life
lay off
Same base verb: lay
Dismiss employees from a job
lay on
Same base verb: lay
Place a duty or charge on someone; Provide or supply something for an event
lay out
Same base verb: lay
Spread or arrange items so they can be seen
lay over
Same base verb: lay
Stay somewhere for a short time during a longer journey
lay up
Same base verb: lay
Force someone to stay in bed because of illness or injury
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