"Laying hold of" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of grasping or firmly gripping something or someone. It conveys the idea of taking possession or control of a particular item or object by physically holding it with one's hands. The phrase can also be used metaphorically to express the act of understanding or comprehending something.
In a literal sense, "laying hold of" implies a physical action of grabbing or seizing an object firmly. For example, one might say, "He laid hold of the rope and climbed up the mountain."
Metaphorically, "laying hold of" indicates the process of mentally or emotionally understanding or grasping a concept, idea, or situation. For instance, someone might say, "After years of studying, she finally laid hold of the complicated mathematical theorem."
The expression can also be employed to describe capturing or apprehending someone, typically used in a legal or law enforcement context. Additionally, it can signify acquiring something that is not physically present, such as information or knowledge.
Overall, "laying hold of" encompasses the act of physically or mentally capturing, comprehending, or acquiring something, lending itself to both literal and metaphorical interpretations depending on the context in which it is used.
