phrasal verb🧩 phrasal verb
lay out
to arrange or explain
What it means
To arrange things carefully on a flat surface so they can be seen clearly, or to explain a plan, idea, or argument in detail. It is used in design, planning, and clear communication.
Words like “lay out” are exactly the kind of vocabulary our English vocabulary size test measures — find out how many English words you know.
Examples
- She laid out all the photos on the table to choose her favourites.
- Could you lay out the main points of your proposal for the team?
- The garden was beautifully laid out with winding paths and flower beds.
- He laid out his reasons for leaving the company in a long email.
Where it comes from
Separable: 'lay out the plan' or 'lay them out'. The noun 'layout' (one word) refers to the design or arrangement of pages, rooms, or spaces.
Related phrasal verbs
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