These two verb phrases lie down and lay down are often mistakenly used, even by native speakers. In fact, they have very different meanings and uses. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between “lay down” and “lie down” and provide you with plenty of examples to help you use them correctly.
Lay Down or Lie Down: Definition
Lay Down
To lay down means to put something down in a flat position. It is a transitive verb, which means it requires an object. Here are some examples:
- Please lay down the book on the table. (direct object: book)
- I laid down the keys on the counter. (direct object: keys)
- She is laying down the foundation for her new business. (direct object: foundation)
In the past tense, lay down becomes laid down. For example:
- Yesterday, I laid down on the couch and watched TV. (past tense of lay down)
Lie Down
To lie down means to recline or rest in a horizontal position. It is an intransitive verb, which means it does not require an object. Here are some examples:
- I need to lie down and take a nap. (no object required)
- He lies down on the beach and reads a book. (no object required)
- She lay down on the bed and closed her eyes. (past tense of lie down)
In the past tense, lie down becomes lay down. For example:
- Last night, I lay down in bed and fell asleep. (past tense of lie down)
This is where the trouble comes in. “Lay down” means two different things. In present tense, it means “To lay down means to put something down in a flat position.” However, in the past tense, “lay down” is the past form of “lie down”, which is to recline or rest in a horizontal position.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
When it comes to the usage of “lay” and “lie,” there are several common mistakes and misconceptions that people often make. Let’s take a look at some of them:
Mistake #1: Using “lay” instead of “lie”
One of the most common mistakes people make is using “lay” instead of “lie” when they mean to say that they want to rest horizontally. Remember, “lay” is a transitive verb that requires an object, while “lie” is an intransitive verb that does not require an object.
For example, saying “I’m going to go lay down” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “I’m going to go lie down.”
Mistake #2: Using the wrong tense
Another common mistake is using the wrong tense of “lay” or “lie.” Remember, the past tense of “lie” is “lay,” while the past tense of “lay” is “laid.”
For example, saying “Yesterday, I laid on the couch all day” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “Yesterday, I lay on the couch all day.”
Misconception #1: “Lay” is always followed by an object
Another common misconception is that “lay” is always followed by an object. While it is true that “lay” is a transitive verb that requires an object, there are some cases where it can be used without an object.
For example, saying “I’m going to go lay in the sun” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “I’m going to go lie in the sun.” However, saying “I’m going to go lay out in the sun” is correct, as “lay out” is a phrasal verb that does not require an object.
Misconception #2: “Lie” always means telling a falsehood
Finally, another common misconception is that “lie” always means telling a falsehood. While “lie” can mean telling a falsehood, it also means to rest horizontally.
For example, saying “I’m going to go tell a lie down” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “I’m going to go lie down.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between lying down and laying down?
The main difference between “lying down” and “laying down” is that “lying down” is an intransitive verb, which means it doesn’t require an object, while “laying down” is a transitive verb that requires an object. In other words, “lying down” doesn’t involve placing or putting something down, while “laying down” does.
What is the past tense of ‘lie down’?
The past tense of “lie down” is “lay down.” For example, “I lay down on the bed last night.”
Is it grammatically correct to say ‘lay down’ or ‘lie down’?
Both “lay down” and “lie down” are grammatically correct. However, you should use “lie down” when there is no object involved, and “lay down” when there is an object involved.