B1verb1K

Lay

UK /["/leɪ/","/leɪz/","/leɪd/","/ˈleɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/leɪ/","/leɪz/","/leɪd/","/ˈleɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to put somebody/something in a particular position, especially when it is done gently or carefully

In simple words: To put something down flat.

Examples

  • Please lay the book on the table.
  • He decided to lay his cards on the table and be honest with her.
  • She likes to lay in the sun on warm days.
  • Cats often lay on their owner's lap.
  • They plan to lay a new foundation for the building next week.

Usage notes

Use 'lay' when placing objects down. It is not appropriate to use 'lay' for living things, like people or animals. People often confuse 'lay' and 'lie'.

Grammar pattern

lay + object

Memory hint

Think of 'laying' a book down flat on a table.

Collocations

  • nicely
  • well
  • clearly
  • on
  • over
  • nicely
  • well
  • clearly
  • on
  • over
  • nicely
  • well
  • clearly
  • on
  • over

Synonyms

  • set
  • place

Antonyms

  • raise
  • lift

Common mistakes

  • 'Lay' is incorrectly used instead of 'lie' when referring to reclining.
  • Confusing past tense forms: 'laid' is the past of 'lay' but learners often use 'layed'.
  • 'Lay' is sometimes used as if it can take a subject, such as 'I lay here.' instead of 'I lie here.'