"lay on the bed" vs "lie on the bed"

Question

"lay on the bed" vs "lie on the bed"

The phrases 'lie on the bed' and 'lay on the bed' are both correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Lie on the bed' is used when someone is reclining or resting on the bed, while 'lay on the bed' is used when someone is placing something on the bed. The choice between 'lie' and 'lay' depends on whether the action is being done by the subject or to an object.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

Use 'lay on the bed' when referring to placing something on the bed.

Examples:

Please lay the clothes on the bed.
She lays the baby on the bed for a diaper change.
He lays the book on the bed before going to sleep.

Alternatives:

place on the bed
put on the bed
position on the bed

Use 'lie on the bed' when referring to someone reclining or resting on the bed.

Examples:

I like to lie on the bed and read a book.
She lies on the bed when she needs to relax.
He lies on the bed to take a nap.

Alternatives:

recline on the bed
rest on the bed
relax on the bed

Answer 1

lay on the bed

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when someone is placing something on the bed.

Answer 2

lie on the bed

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when someone is reclining or resting on the bed.

"lay on the bed" vs "lie on the bed"

lay on the bed

lie on the bed

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