TOP TIP!
Here's the primary difference between using LIE and LAY:
Lie = to recline or rest by itself (no object)
Lay = to place something down (needs an object)
If you can put "something" after the verb, use lay.
If not, use lie.
PRESENT TENSE
Lie: I lie down when I'm tired.
Lay: I lay the book on the table.
PAST TENSE (this is the confusing part)
(verb, simple past, past participle)
LIE: lie, lay, lain
LAY: lay, laid, laid
Examples:
Yesterday, I lay on the couch all day.
Yesterday, I laid the keys on the counter.
Common quick tests
Ask "what?"
I lay what? → needs an object → lay
I lie → no "what" → lie
Replace with "recline"
If it works → lie
If it doesn't → lay
TRY SOME OF OUR OTHER VOCABULARY PRACTICE QUIZZES:
THERE, THEY'RE, THEIR 1 (I)
Which suffix? -FUL or -LESS? 1
Which suffix? -FUL or -LESS? 2
AS or LIKE 1
Which word: END or FINISH?
Which word: LIFE, LIVE, or LIVING?
Which verb: to TELL, to SPEAK, to TALK, or to SAY? 1
Which verb: to TELL, to SPEAK, to TALK, or to SAY? 2
Quiz: LAY or LIE? 1
Quiz: LAY or LIE? 2
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