I can lay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I can lay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to placing something down or to indicate the act of laying something in a specific position. Example: "I can lay the book on the table for you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

"Anybody I can lay me hands on," he quipped.

The New York Times

"Anyone I can lay my hands on," Mr. Savile replied.

The New York Times

"I can lay it on the line," he said yesterday.

The New York Times - Sports

I can lay out rhyme and reason about where we're making progress.

The New York Times

If I get some peace and quiet, I can lay that on you".

The New Yorker

I can lay really flat!" Watts abandoned the bug, and talked about his role on "The Late Late Show".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Now I can lie like... well, a very good liar.

The Guardian - Tech

If I'm smothered in suntan lotion, I can lie on the beach all day.

Independent

"I can lie on the couch and catch up on the whole thing this weekend".

The New Yorker

"I can lie in bed and see the treetops," Ms. Threatt said.

The New York Times

In those situations I can lie convincingly and I'm sure you can as well.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I can lay", ensure the context clearly indicates placing something down physically, or metaphorically presenting something, like laying out an argument. For example, "I can lay the foundation for our success".

Common error

Avoid confusing "lay" (to place something down) with "lie" (to recline). "Lay" requires a direct object; "lie" does not. A common mistake is saying "I'm going to lay down" when it should be "I'm going to "lie down"".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I can lay" functions primarily as a declarative statement expressing the speaker's ability to perform an action. This action typically involves placing something physically, or, in a more abstract sense, presenting or explaining something. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Lifestyle

25%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I can lay" is a versatile expression used to indicate the ability to place, present, or assert something. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase finds frequent usage in news and media, lifestyle content, and sports reporting. While generally neutral in register, context dictates the specific level of formality. Remembering to distinguish "lay" from "lie" is crucial to avoid common grammatical errors. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, writers can effectively incorporate "I can lay" into their vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I can set

Uses a simpler verb "set" instead of "lay", reducing the phrase to its most basic meaning of placing something.

I am able to put

Expresses the ability with the verb 'put' instead of 'lay'.

I am able to place

Replaces "can" with "am able to" and "lay" with "place", emphasizing ability and action of putting something down.

I'm ready to put

Expresses readiness to put something somewhere, focusing on immediate action.

I'm capable of putting

Emphasizes capability using "capable of" and replaces "lay" with "put", providing a slightly less formal option.

I'm prepared to place

Indicates preparation to place something, highlighting anticipation.

I am in a position to set

Indicates capability and readiness to set something down, offering a more formal tone.

I have the ability to position

Highlights having the skill to position something, adding a layer of formality.

I'm equipped to set down

Suggests preparedness and the necessary tools or skills to set something down.

It's within my power to put

Highlights the power or authority to put something somewhere, adding emphasis.

FAQs

What does "I can lay" mean?

The phrase "I can lay" generally means that someone is capable of placing or setting something down. Depending on context, it can also refer to presenting something, such as an argument or a plan. For example, "I can lay out the details" means someone can explain or present them.

How do I use "I can lay" in a sentence?

Use "I can lay" when you want to express your ability to physically place an object or metaphorically 'put down' an idea. For instance, you might say "I can lay the carpet" or "I can lay my cards on the table".

What's the difference between "I can lay" and "I can lie"?

"Lay" is a transitive verb meaning to place something down, requiring a direct object (e.g., "I can lay the book here"). "Lie" is an intransitive verb meaning to recline, not needing a direct object (e.g., "I can lie down").

What are some alternatives to "I can lay"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "I can place", "I can set down", or "I can put". For metaphorical uses, consider "I can present" or "I can explain".