Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[shvetsov2005]

What would be the difference between verbs to waylay and to ambush?
When would you use one and when another?

Alex.

[pugachevV]

To ambush means to attack from a concealed position.
e.g. We were ambushed at the crossroads by six guys who had been hiding behind a wall.
Waylay means to intercept in order to attack.
We were waylaid at the crossroads by six guys who were coming from the city.
So, they are similar except that waylay does not carry the meaning of concealment.
Waylay also has the meaning of to intercept and detain with questions, conversations, etc.
e.g. As we were leaving the party we were waylaid by Bill, who bored us to death for 20 minutes with stories about his trip.

[shvetsov2005]

Thanks.

[pugachevV]

You are welcome.