Lie vs Lay: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Lie" means to recline and does not require an object; "lay" is used to mean to put or place something and requires an object.
Memory Tip: lie = recline, lay = place an item
lie rhymes with 'high', lay rhymes with 'say'
lie
verbTo lie means to say something that is not true.
Example:
She was lying on the couch when I called her, relaxing after a long day.
Common patterns:
lie to someone
lie about something
tell a lie
lay /leɪ/
verbTo put something down carefully in a flat position.
Example:
I have laid the book on the table, so you can read it whenever you want.
Common patterns:
lay the table
lay eggs
lay a foundation
Common Mistakes
I need to lay down for a nap.
I need to lie down for a nap.
The verb 'lie' is used here because it means to recline and does not require an object.
Please lie the book on the table.
Please lay the book on the table.
The verb 'lay' is used here because it means to put or place something and requires an object.
Other Confusing Words
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