"Laying fingers on" is an idiomatic expression that describes physically making contact or touching someone or something. It implies a deliberate or intentional act of touching or handling. This phrase is often used in a figurative sense to convey the idea of obtaining, acquiring, or gaining control over something or someone.
In a literal context, it refers to making physical contact with an object or with another person's body. For example, if someone says "Do not lay your fingers on my belongings," it means they are warning others not to touch or handle their personal possessions.
Figuratively, the phrase can refer to gaining control over a situation, person, or object. For instance, if someone says "He managed to lay his fingers on classified documents," this indicates that the person was able to gain access to and control over secret files.
The phrase can also carry a negative connotation, suggesting an act of aggression or harm towards someone. For example, "If you ever lay your fingers on her, there will be consequences." This implies a strong warning against physically hurting or assaulting someone.
In summary, "laying fingers on" refers to physically touching or handling someone or something, typically in a deliberate or intentional manner, and can have both literal and figurative meanings.
