1 C1 idiomatic formal
To be the real, underlying reason or cause that explains something.
"Nobody could agree on what lay behind his sudden decision to resign."
inseparable
lay behind
C1 formal inseparable intransitive
To be the underlying cause, reason, or motivation for something. (Note: 'lie behind' is the more standard form.)
In plain English
To be the real reason or cause of something, hidden beneath the surface.
What does "lay behind" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To be positioned 'behind' something — suggesting a hidden or less visible position that explains what is in front.
Actually means
To be the real reason or cause of something, hidden beneath the surface.
Usage tip
Usage note: Careful speakers and writers prefer 'lie behind' for this sense, as 'lie' is the intransitive verb for being in a position. 'Lay behind' is encountered but may be regarded as an error. The meaning is the same: the hidden reason that explains something.
Words that pair with "lay behind"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
decision motive success failure conflict choice
How to conjugate "lay behind"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
lay behind
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lays behind
he/she/it
Past simple
laid behind
yesterday
Past participle
laid behind
have + pp
-ing form
laying behind
continuous
Hear "lay behind" in the wild
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Other ways to say "lay behind"
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