Lie low

Meaning

The idiom "lie low" means to keep a low profile, or to remain hidden or discreet. It can also mean to avoid attracting attention or being noticed. For example, when someone is wanted by authorities or is in hiding from someone, they might lie low.

Usage

• After the scandal broke, he decided to lie low and avoid any publicity.
• When she's not working, she loves to travel and lie low in different cities around the world.
• My boss told me I need to lie low for a few days until the project is finished.
• After receiving threats from an anonymous source, the celebrity decided to lie low and protect herself.
• The company is facing some financial difficulties and has had to lay off several employees, so they're lying low and hoping to weather the storm.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom "lie low" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 19th century. It may come from the fact that animals like snakes and lizards often hide or lie low to avoid predators. In contemporary language, the phrase has taken on a broader meaning that refers to staying out of sight and avoiding attention.

Synonyms in English

• Keep a low profile
• Stay undercover
• Hide away
• Keep out of sight
• Lay low

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "estar en el fondo" (to be at the bottom)
• French: "se cache" (to hide)
• German: "verstecken" (to hide)
• Italian: "nascondere" (to hide)
• Japanese: "隠れる" (to hide)

Similar Idioms

• last long

• look forward

• like a chicken with its head cut off