The spelling of the phrase "laid by" can be better understood using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The word "laid" is pronounced /leɪd/ with a long vowel sound in the first syllable and the letter combination "ai" representing the sound /eɪ/. The word "by" is pronounced /baɪ/ with a diphthong sound created by the combination of "y" and the letter "i" representing the sound /aɪ/. Together, the phrase "laid by" is pronounced /leɪd baɪ/.
"Laid by" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of setting aside or saving something, typically money or resources, for future use or as a contingency. This term can also be used in the context of treasuring or preserving something for a later time.
The phrase is commonly associated with financial planning, where individuals or organizations set aside funds with the intention of saving or investing them for a specific purpose. For instance, one might lay by money to cover unexpected expenses, create an emergency fund, or plan for retirement. This implies a deliberate and conscious effort to accumulate and safeguard resources over time.
In addition to financial connotations, "laid by" can be employed metaphorically to describe the practice of accumulating or stockpiling non-monetary resources or objects. For instance, someone might lay by food supplies for an upcoming event, or store vintage collectibles or valuable possessions for future generations. This highlights the idea of carefully preserving something for later use or enjoyment.
Overall, "laid by" signifies the act of intentionally setting aside or accumulating something, with the aim of ensuring its availability or usefulness in the future. Whether it pertains to money, resources, or other valuable items, this term implies a strategic and proactive approach towards planning and preparation.
The phrase "laid by" typically refers to something being set aside or reserved for future use or consumption. However, there is no specific etymology for the phrase "laid by" itself. It is simply a combination of the verb "lay" and the preposition "by". The usage of "laid by" is derived from the broader meanings of those individual words. "Laid" comes from the Old English word "lecgan", meaning "to place or set". "By" is a preposition that has been in use since Old English and denotes proximity or nearness. When combined, "laid by" serves to indicate that something has been set aside or put aside for a later time.