lay a finger on (someone or something)

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lay a finger on (someone or something)

To touch someone or something in the slightest way. If you so much as lay a finger on my son again, I'm calling the cops. I can't believe the vase shattered like that—I feel like I barely laid a finger on it.

See also: finger, lay, on

lay a finger on someone or something

to touch someone or something, even slightly, as with only a finger. Don't you dare lay a finger on my pencil. Go get your own! If you lay a finger on me, I'll scream.

See also: finger, lay, on

lay a finger on

Also, put a finger on. Barely touch, as in You'd better not lay a finger on those documents! or If you lay a finger on me, I'll sue. This expression is nearly always used as a prohibition. [Mid-1800s] Also see put one's finger on.

See also: finger, lay, on

lay a finger on

touch someone, usually with the intention of harming them.

1993 Tony Parker May the Lord in His Mercy be Kind to Belfast The one thing I'll say about my husband is he never laid a finger on the children and he never hit me in front of them.

See also: finger, lay, on

lay a ˈfinger on somebody

(informal) (often in negative sentences) touch somebody with the intention of hurting them physically: If you lay a finger on her, I’ll call the police.