Don’t confuse “lie” and “lay.”
In their verb forms, “lie” and “lay” are two of the most commonly confused words in the English language. So, if you have trouble in this area, you are not alone!
The word “lie” has many definitions. Its most often confused one is to rest in a horizontal position: The cat lies on its cushion. The word “lay,” too, has many definitions, but its most often confused one is to put in position: Lay your coat on the couch.
It might help you to remember that “lay” always requires an object. That is, you must always say what you’re laying for this word to be correct. You can “lay down the law” (lay what? the law) but you can’t “lay on the bed” (lay what? We don’t know). You can, however, “lay a pillow on the bed” (lay what? a pillow).
There is no simple solution to this grammar challenge. Practice until you get it right!
Fill in the blanks with “lie” or “lay.”
- I’m tired; I think I’ll……. down.
- Don asked Mary to______the table.
- The hen will______ an egg today.
- Some snakes like to______in the grass.
