Translation guide
The English phrase 'laying out' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: arranging or spreading things out, explaining or presenting clearly, spending money, and preparing a dead body. Each meaning has different natural Japanese equivalents.
To place items in an organized or spread-out manner, such as clothes, tools, or a picnic.
laying out clothes for the morning · laying out tools on the workbench · laying out a picnic blanket
General verb for arranging or lining up objects in an orderly way. Transitive.
I laid out the clothes on the bed.
To spread something out flat, like a map, blanket, or newspaper. Transitive.
We laid out a picnic sheet in the park.
To prepare or get things ready, often used when 'laying out' means setting things up for use.
I laid out my clothes for tomorrow.
To spread or lay something flat on a surface, especially bedding, mats, or sheets. Transitive.
I laid out the futon.
To explain an idea, plan, or argument in a clear, organized way.
laying out the plan for the project · laying out the reasons for the decision
The most common and neutral way to say 'explain'. Works in most contexts.
I laid out the plan in detail.
To state clearly or articulate. More formal, often used in writing or presentations.
To present or put forward (a plan, idea). Common in business or formal settings.
We laid out a new strategy.
To state or express. Slightly formal, often used in speeches or writing.
To spend a large amount of money, often on something significant.
laying out a lot of money for a new car · laying out cash for repairs
General verb for spending money. Neutral and widely used.
I laid out a lot of money on a new car.
To spend or expend (money, time, effort). Slightly formal, emphasizes the amount or sacrifice.
To expend or disburse money. Formal, often used in accounting or business contexts.
The company laid out a large amount on equipment.
To wash and dress a dead body for burial or viewing.
laying out the deceased · the body was laid out in the funeral home
To prepare or arrange a dead body. This is a descriptive phrase; there is no single common verb equivalent to 'lay out' in this sense.
They laid out the body neatly.
To place a body in a coffin. This is part of the funeral process and implies preparation.
They laid out the deceased in the coffin.
Ritual washing of the deceased. A specific part of traditional Japanese funeral rites.
After laying out (washing) the body, they placed it in the coffin.
The English phrase 'laying out' cannot be translated as a single Japanese verb. Always choose the equivalent based on the specific meaning: arranging, explaining, spending, or preparing a body.
He laid out his opinion clearly.
I laid out the reasons concisely.
修理に多額の費用を費やした。
We laid out a large sum for repairs.