lay down the law

(verb) to take a strict opinion or viewpoint when you are in charge

Example Sentences:

I’m sorry sir, but you cannot buy a Nintendo Wii because they are sold out. If you bother me one more time, I will have to lay down the law and ask you to leave.

Kids: We want to go to Disneyland!
Dad: No, we’re going to Paris.
Kids: But we want to go to Disneyland!
Dad: We’re going to Paris, and I’m laying down the law!
Kids: You are so unfair!

The teacher laid down the law on the first day and told us the many classroom rules that he had.

Media:

From the Blogs:

New ESPN Hire to Lay Down the Law

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Similar idioms:

1. put one’s foot down
2. that’s that
3. lay something to rest
4. lay someone to rest
5. call off
6. hit the road
7. do away with
8. sleep on it
9. get something off your chest