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lay it on

B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

Say nicer (or worse) things than you really mean to impress or influence someone.

Literal meaning: To apply (a substance) thickly onto a surface — like spreading butter thickly on bread.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To exaggerate praise, flattery, or emotion in a way that seems insincere or excessive.

"He was really laying it on, telling her she was the most talented person he'd ever met."

"You really laid it on a bit thick there, didn't you?"

— Common British colloquial expression; widely documented in informal speech and British sitcoms
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To be very generous in providing something, such as food, drink, or hospitality.

"The hosts really laid it on — there was food and wine for twice as many guests."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Almost always used with 'thick' in its full form ('lay it on thick'). Without 'thick', 'lay it on' is slightly less emphatic but carries the same meaning. Can refer to excessive flattery or, less commonly, to exaggerating difficulties. Informal in all contexts.

Commonly used with

compliments flattery charm praise thick guilt

Forms

Base
lay it on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lays it on
he/she/it
Past simple
laid it on
yesterday
Past participle
laid it on
have + pp
-ing form
laying it on
continuous

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