Part 7: Lie vs Lay: English In A Minute
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So'lay'alwayshasanobject,anditmeans'putsomethingorsomeonedowncarefully'–normallyina
position.
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Lie vs Lay: English In A Minute
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So 'lay' always has an object, and it means 'put something or someone down carefully' – normally in a flat position.
When I eat I lay a cloth on the table.
You can lay a baby in a cot.
The past tense is 'laid', but careful with the spelling.
I laid all my cards on the table.
The verb 'lie' doesn't have an object and it means that you are 'in a flat position' or you 'put yourself in a flat position'- so you move on your own.
Tonight I want to lie on the sofa and watch a film.
But be careful.
Now, the past of 'lie' is 'lay'.
Yesterday I lay on the beach and read my book.