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lie before

C1 formal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

Something that is in front of you and needs to be done or dealt with.

Literal meaning: To be positioned physically in front of someone.

Meanings

1 C1 formal

(Formal) to be positioned physically in front of someone or something.

"The vast plain lay before them, stretching as far as the eye could see."

Grammar: inseparable
2 C1 idiomatic formal

(Formal) to be presented to a group or authority for consideration or decision.

"The evidence that lies before the committee is compelling."

Grammar: inseparable
3 C1 formal

(Figurative) to be a future challenge, task, or possibility awaiting someone.

"Great things lie before you if you are willing to work for them."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

A formal or literary expression. Common in formal legal, political, or literary contexts ('the matter that lies before the court'). Rare in everyday conversation. Similar to 'lie ahead' but carries a greater sense of something that needs to be addressed or examined.

Commonly used with

court committee us you parliament decision

Forms

Base
lie before
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lies before
he/she/it
Past simple
lay before
yesterday
Past participle
lain before
have + pp
-ing form
lying before
continuous

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