[lie] in wait
1
(of something bad) to be about to happen to one
The idiom "lie in wait" is used to describe a state of readiness or anticipation for a negative event or outcome. The origin of this expression is rooted in the idea of waiting and being prepared to face adversity, particularly when one feels powerless to take action in order to prevent or stop it.
- No one knows what lies in wait for us in the coming year.
- With the storm clouds gathering, it felt like trouble was lying in wait for our outdoor picnic.
- As he saw the economic indicators decline, he knew financial hardship was lying in wait.
- The signs of illness were apparent, and he could sense that poor health was lying in wait.
- She had a nagging feeling that failure was lying in wait for her if she didn't prepare adequately.
2
to secretly wait for the right time to catch or attack an enemy or prey
The phrase "lie in wait" is an idiom that means to secretly wait for the right time to catch or attack an enemy, prey, or target. The origin of this phrase is rooted in the idea of predators or hunters lying hidden and still, ready to seize their moment to strike.
- The gunmen were lying in wait when Mr Predit came out of the hotel.
- The killer may have been lying in wait for him.
- The detective decided to lie in wait for the suspect, hoping to catch them in the act.
- The lioness lies in wait for the perfect moment to ambush her prey.
- The sniper will lie in wait for hours, waiting for the enemy to reveal their position.