When someone "lays on thick," they are exaggerating or overstating something. The opposite of this behavior would be subtle or understated, where the person shows restraint and is minimal in their approach. Instead of laying on thick, they could be using moderation, being sincere, or being succinct. Other antonyms include being modest, delicate, or gentle. While laying on thick might be suitable in some scenarios, using the opposite approach can have a more significant impact in situations where honesty and authenticity matter. By being subtle, the message can come across as more genuine and trustworthy.