lace into
C1Informal
Definition
Meaning
To attack someone or something verbally or physically with great force and intensity.
To criticize, scold, or berate someone severely; to assault physically; to begin an activity with vigorous energy.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
This phrasal verb is figurative and often implies suddenness, aggression, and emotional intensity. It can be used for both verbal and physical attacks. The object of the attack is typically introduced by 'into'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Slightly more common in American English.
Connotations
Informal, forceful, sometimes suggesting an unfair or overly harsh attack.
Frequency
Low-to-medium frequency in both varieties. More likely in spoken language, journalism, or informal writing than in formal contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Subject + lace into + object (person/thing)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Tear/rip into (similar meaning)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare; might be used in informal descriptions of critical meetings: 'The board laced into the CEO over the failed merger.'
Academic
Very rare; considered too informal.
Everyday
Used in conversation to describe severe verbal criticism: 'My mum really laced into me for coming home late.'
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The columnist really laced into the government's new policy.
- He laced into his dinner as if he hadn't eaten for days.
American English
- The coach laced into the team after their terrible performance.
- She laced into the customer service rep on the phone.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The teacher laced into the class for not doing their homework.
- The restaurant critic laced into the new bistro, calling the food 'inedible'.
- He didn't just criticise my idea; he absolutely laced into it.
- The opposition spokesperson proceeded to lace into the minister's handling of the crisis, highlighting every flaw.
- Watching him lace into that complex mathematical problem was impressive.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'lace' as the sharp, intricate part of a whip. To 'lace into' someone is to whip them with words.
Conceptual Metaphor
VERBAL ATTACK IS PHYSICAL ASSAULT / CRITICISM IS A LASHING.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate literally as 'вплетаться в'.
- Avoid confusing with 'lace up' (зашнуровать).
- The closest equivalent is often 'наброситься на (с критикой)' or 'разнести (в пух и прах)'.
Common Mistakes
- Using it in formal writing.
- Incorrect preposition (e.g., 'lace on', 'lace at').
- Using it for mild criticism.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'lace into' MOST appropriately used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it is less common than the verbal sense. It implies a vigorous, perhaps frenzied assault (e.g., 'The boxer laced into his opponent'). The verbal sense is dominant.
It is firmly informal. It would sound out of place in official reports, academic writing, or formal speeches.
'Lace into' is much stronger and more aggressive than 'tell off'. 'Tell off' is a simple scolding, while 'lace into' implies a harsh, sustained, and often angry verbal attack.
Yes, you can 'lace into' an idea, a policy, a meal (meaning to eat vigorously), or a task. The core idea of attacking or tackling with intensity remains.