Two challenging verbs in English are “lie” vs “lay”.
Here are

their differences.

In the present tense:
“Lie” means to rest or recline. To be in a flat position on a surface.
- it is used with people and animals.

Example:
- I am going to lie down for a nap.
- The dog lies down next to the fireplace.
- She lies in bed all day on Sundays.


“Lay” means to put something down on a surface, usually gently.

(Notice how with “lay” we use an object, where with “lie” we do not use an object)

Example:
- I will lay the books down on the table. (The books are the object)
- She lays the baby down for a nap. (The baby is the object)
- The father lays his glasses on the floor. (His glasses is the object)



In the past tense:
“Lie” becomes “lay” (this is confusing!)

Example:
- He lay on the couch for hours yesterday.
- The cat lay next to the front door waiting for his owner for three hours on Tuesday.


“Lay” becomes “laid”

Example:
- I laid the backpack next to my bed.
- The mother laid her baby down to nap.



In the present participle:
“Lie” becomes “lying”

Example:
- The boy was lying down before the party.
- I was lying in bed waiting for my friend to come over.


“Lay” becomes “laying”

Examples:
- Laying the food out on the table is a good idea.
- They were laying the clothing out to dry after being washed.