How to Pronounce "lay off"
expression
ˈɫeɪ/ /ˈɔf
LAY-awf
lˈeɪ/ /ˈɒf
LAY-of
Definition
To end someone's job, usually because the company needs to reduce costs or has too many workers. It does not mean the employee did anything wrong.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɫeɪ/ /ˈɔf
British English
lˈeɪ/ /ˈɒf
Simplified Pronunciation
US
LAY-awf
UK
LAY-of
Listen in Context
The company had to lay off 100 workers.
Many people were laid off during the recession.
He was laid off last month and is looking for a new job.
I was shocked when they laid me off with no warning.