The phrase "laid forward" has several possible antonyms, depending on the specific context in which it is used. In terms of physical motion, some possible antonyms might include "pulled back," "retracted," or "withdrew." If the phrase is used in a rhetorical sense, as in "she laid forward a compelling argument," some antonyms might include "backtracking," "retracting," or "denying." And if the phrase is used in a more abstract sense, such as in "the company laid forward a bold new strategy," some antonyms might include "conservative," "timid," or "unchanged." In each case, the opposite of "laid forward" would depend on the specific context and meaning of the phrase.