lie with

Idioms

Be decided by, dependent on, or up to. For example, The choice of restaurant lies with you. Starting about 1300 this phrase meant “to have sexual intercourse with,” a usage that is now obsolete. [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

lie with

Many economists say the explanation must lie with China’s vast crude-oil reserves.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 22, 2026

The president has a largely ceremonial role, responsible for representation and the promulgation of laws, while most executive powers lie with the prime minister.

From Barron's ● Jul. 19, 2026

The more plausible fix may lie with Congress.

From Slate ● Jul. 6, 2026

The error with any individual issue may lie with the insurer, the provider or the patient.

From MarketWatch ● Apr. 22, 2026

“Under the greenwood tree,” sang Maid Marian, “Who loves to lie with me, And tune his merry note Unto the sweet bird’s throat.”

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023