noun
Uncommon
lieu
lyoo
Lieu (noun) means used in the phrase "in lieu of," meaning in place of or instead of. Example: “She took an extra day off in lieu of overtime pay.”
noun
1
Used in the phrase "in lieu of," meaning in place of or instead of.
"She took an extra day off in lieu of overtime pay."
"The company offered store credit in lieu of a refund."
How to use lieu
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAlmost always used as "in lieu of," meaning "instead of."
Memory tip
Outside the fixed phrase "in lieu of," this word essentially isn't used in modern English.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
in lieu of
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Word forms
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She took an extra day off in _____ of overtime pay.
Etymology
Borrowed from French lieu, "place," from Latin locus.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for lieu
See all rhymes for lieu →Frequently asked questions
What does “lieu” mean?
The word “lieu” means used in the phrase "in lieu of," meaning in place of or instead of. In plain terms, almost always used as "in lieu of," meaning "instead of.".
How do you pronounce “lieu”?
“Lieu” is pronounced lyoo (/ljuː/ in IPA).
How do you use “lieu” in a sentence?
Here is “lieu” used in a sentence: “She took an extra day off in lieu of overtime pay.”
What part of speech is “lieu”?
“Lieu” is a noun.
Where does the word “lieu” come from?
The word “lieu” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French lieu, "place," from Latin locus.
Is “lieu” a common word?
“Lieu” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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