Antonyms for the phrase "lay fingers on" include "release," "let go," "unhand," "give up," "abandon," "relinquish," "surrender," and "forfeit." These words imply a lack of possession or control over an object or person, rather than actively seizing or grasping them. Using these antonyms changes the tone of a sentence from forceful or aggressive to one of release or letting go. For example, instead of saying "I need to lay my fingers on that book," one could say "I will release my hold on that book." Understanding antonyms can help to broaden vocabulary and adjust the tone of language to convey different meanings.