Idiom
in lieu
In lieu means instead of or in place of something else.
Meanings
Instead of; in place of.
Definition
This phrase is used to indicate that one thing is being provided or done as a substitute for another. It often implies that the original or expected item is unavailable or being replaced by an alternative. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Examples
- Since the restaurant ran out of potatoes, they offered rice in lieu of them.
- The company provided a bonus check in lieu of a pay raise this year.
- She received a gift voucher in lieu of a cash refund for the returned item.
- If you can't attend the meeting, you can send a representative in lieu of yourself.
Common mistake
A common mistake is to use "in lieu" without the preposition "of" when specifying what is being replaced.
More adverbial phrases
- out of the blue Suddenly and unexpectedly, without any warning.
- so far so good Everything is progressing successfully or without problems up to this point in time.
- in the long run Eventually, over a long period of time, considering ultimate outcomes rather than immediate ones.
- in the interim During the period of time between two events or moments.
- oddly enough Used to introduce a statement that is surprising or unexpected.