lies low
Keeps out of sight
Lies low means to stay hidden or avoid drawing attention to oneself, typically to escape notice or wait for trouble to pass: After the scandal broke, he lies low until the media moves on.
The phrase suggests deliberate concealment or reduced activity.
Also lay low in the past tense, though laid low (struck down, incapacitated) is a different expression.
- hunker downSettle in defensively
- fugitiveOne fleeing authorities
- hideConceal or pelt
- in hidingConcealed from searchers
- goes to groundRetreats into hiding
undercover · evade · incognito · cautious · clandestine · secretive · stealthy · withdraw · crouch · duck · secluded · wary · discreet · obscure · unnoticed · dodge · off the radar · under the radar
lies lowstands out
Is notably conspicuous
shows off · draws attention · makes waves · flaunts · makes a scene
lies lowgets busy
Starts doing work
comes out swinging · mobilizes · makes waves · takes action · kicks into gear
lies lowresurfaces
Appears again after absence
emerges · steps up · mingles · circulates · networks