🇬🇧 Lay off meaning: English Vocabulary Flash Card

“Lay off” means that a boss tells a worker they can’t work at that job anymore, usually because there isn’t enough money or enough work to do. The person didn’t necessarily do anything wrong; the company just can’t keep paying them. When a worker is laid off, they have to leave that job and look for a new one.

The pizza shop had to lay off its “cheese inspector” after they discovered he had inspected all the cheese into his mouth.

The time-travel company laid off its history editor because he kept “fixing” embarrassing moments from his own life.

The bakery had to lay off its frosting-taster, so now the manager keeps “testing” all the cupcakes by himself.

The superhero agency had to lay off Captain Naptime because he kept falling asleep before saving anyone.

In real life, when companies have money or work problems, they sometimes lay off workers even if the workers did nothing wrong—so always remember it’s usually about the job, not the person.

At the shop the owner had to lay off Tom, had to lay off Mei, had to lay off Sam, had to lay off Ana, and had to lay off Leo. Empty tables, cold cups, hands hold small boxes. They walk out sad. That evening a neighbor offers work and they smile.

This word is at the B2 level, which means it’s used in more complex conversations and texts. It helps you discuss abstract ideas, express opinions clearly, and engage in discussions on a variety of topics, both personal and professional.

Expanding your English vocabulary is one of the best ways to improve your pronunciation, spelling, and confidence in English. Watch the video above to memorize the word, understand its meaning, and see example sentences in action. Discover related words to grow your vocabulary naturally. Add words to your playlist for stress-free, effective learning—anytime, anywhere! Watch, learn, repeat.