By Jasreet Kaur26, Jan 2025 08:28 PMjagranjosh.com
Do you know?
'Lay' means to put something down, while 'lie' means to recline. Their past tenses are different, which causes confusion. Tap to read in detail.
Definition of Lay
Lay requires a direct object (e.g., I lay the book on the table). You are physically placing something down or putting it in a particular position.
Definition of Lie
Lie does not take a direct object (e.g., I lie on the couch to rest). It refers to reclining or assuming a horizontal position without involving any object.
Past Tense of Lay
The past tense of lay is laid (e.g., Yesterday, I laid the book down). It follows regular conjugation patterns in English.
Past Tense of Lie
The past tense of lie is lay (e.g., Yesterday, I lay down for a nap). The irregularity in the past tense often causes confusion with lay.
Usage of Lay
Lay refers to placing or putting something down in a position. It is used when you are physically moving or arranging an object.
Usage of Lie
Lie refers to reclining or being in a resting position without moving an object. It is used when describing a person or animal resting in a horizontal position.