Lay vs Lie

Quick Tip: Remember: Lay means to put or place something (lay the book down - requires an object). Lie means to recline or rest (lie down - no object needed).

Lay

verb

to put down, especially gently or carefully (requires an object)

Examples:
  • Please lay the book on the table.
  • The hen lays eggs every morning.
  • I will lay the blanket on the bed.

Lie

verb

to be in or assume a horizontal or resting position (does not require an object)

Examples:
  • I need to lie down for a while.
  • The cat likes to lie in the sun.
  • The book lies on the table.
verb

to tell a lie or falsehood

Examples:
  • Don't lie to me about what happened.
  • She would never lie about something important.
  • It's wrong to lie to your parents.
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