"Laid violent hands upon" means to beat up or assault someone. It describes a physical attack where force is used against another person.
Understanding the Phrase
The phrase "laid violent hands upon" is a more formal and somewhat archaic way of describing a physical assault. It emphasizes the deliberate and forceful nature of the action. Here's a breakdown:
- Laid: This suggests a deliberate action. It's not accidental contact but an intentional use of hands.
- Violent: This signifies that the action involves force and aggression.
- Hands: This specifies that the physical assault involves the use of hands, although it can imply the use of any part of the body as a weapon.
- Upon: This indicates the target of the action; the person being assaulted.
Example
Here's how you might see the phrase used:
"The witness testified that the assailant laid violent hands upon the victim, causing significant injuries."
Key Takeaways
- The phrase means to assault or beat up.
- It's a more formal way of describing physical violence.
- It highlights the intentional and forceful nature of the assault.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Laid violent hands upon | To beat up; assault |
