Lay:
"Lay" is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object. It means to place something down or to put something in a certain position.
The basic form is "lay," the past tense is "laid," and the past participle is also "laid."
- Please lay the book on the table.
- Yesterday, I laid the baby down for a nap.
- I have laid the cards on the table.
Lie:
"Lie" is an intransitive verb, meaning it doesn't take a direct object. It means to recline or rest in a horizontal position.
The basic form is "lie," the past tense is "lay," and the past participle is "lain."
- I lie on the sofa to relax.
- Yesterday, I lay in bed all day because I was sick.
- She has lain on the beach all afternoon.
Here's a quick way to remember the difference:
- If you can answer the question "lay what?" with a direct object (e.g., lay the book), then use "lay."
- If you're talking about reclining or resting without placing or moving anything, use "lie."
It's also important to note that "lie" has another meaning as well, which is to tell an untruth. However, in the context of this explanation, I focused on its meaning related to reclining or resting.