lie on the grass

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'lie on the grass' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a person or animal relaxing on the grass. For example, "After a long day, I liked to lie on the grass and watch the sunset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Outside, young mothers and children lie on the grass and watch.

The Guardian

If you can't bear to abandon your lawn, don't lie on the grass.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In those days, you could touch the rocks and lie on the grass.

The Guardian - Music

They take pictures or lie on the grass, unaware that someone is watching from behind the sun-darkened window.

The New York Times

When she was small, she liked to lie on the grass in the park near home and study wild pigeons for hours.

The New Yorker

At night the stars are extraordinary; the children lie on the grass and count satellites moving busily through the points of light.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It was a colony of kids, leaning on the rail, lying on the grass, talking sports, and one-upping one another.

The New York Times

People lying on the grass, no? Picnics?

The New York Times

A scorched baseball lay on the grass.

The New York Times

Piles of dead fish lay on the grass.

The New Yorker

He turned and saw Bryant lying on the grass.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "lie on the grass", consider the context and choose a more descriptive verb (e.g., recline, lounge, bask) to add nuance to your writing and provide a clearer picture of the scene.

Common error

A common mistake is using "lay" instead of "lie." Remember, "lie" is intransitive (you lie down), while "lay" is transitive (you lay something down). For example, it's correct to say "I will lie on the grass," but incorrect to say "I will lay on the grass" unless you mean you will place something on the grass.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lie on the grass" functions primarily as a descriptive verbal phrase, indicating an action performed by a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound. It commonly describes a state of relaxation or leisure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lie on the grass" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of reclining on grass, often for relaxation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for general use. It appears frequently in News & Media, according to Ludwig's analysis, indicating a neutral register. While alternatives like "recline", "lounge", or "bask" can add more descriptive detail, it's crucial to avoid the common error of using "lay" instead of "lie". Ultimately, "lie on the grass" serves as a versatile way to depict a simple, enjoyable outdoor activity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lie on the lawn

Lawn is a synonym for grass, typically referring to a cultivated area of grass.

lay on the grass

Uses 'lay' instead of 'lie,' altering the grammatical structure but retaining the core meaning.

recline on the grass

Recline implies a more relaxed or luxurious posture compared to simply lying.

relax on the grass

Relax focuses on the mental and physical state of ease achieved while lying on the grass.

rest on the grass

Rest suggests a temporary pause or break, rather than an extended period of relaxation.

lounge on the grass

Lounge implies a leisurely and comfortable way of relaxing.

stretch out on the grass

This alternative emphasizes the act of extending one's body while lying down.

bask on the grass

Bask suggests enjoying the warmth of the sun while lying on the grass.

repose on the grass

Repose is a more formal and literary term for resting or lying down.

be prone on the grass

Being prone refers specifically to lying face down.

FAQs

How can I use "lie on the grass" in a sentence?

You can use "lie on the grass" to describe someone relaxing outdoors, for example, "After a long hike, we decided to "lie on the grass" and enjoy the view."

What's the difference between "lie on the grass" and "sit on the grass"?

"Lie on the grass" implies a reclining position, while "sit on the grass" suggests an upright seated position. The choice depends on the intended posture and activity.

What can I say instead of "lie on the grass" to sound more descriptive?

Consider using phrases like "recline on the grass", "lounge on the grass", or "bask on the grass" to add detail and imagery to your description.

Is it grammatically correct to say "lay on the grass" instead of "lie on the grass"?

While some might use "lay" colloquially, "lie" is the grammatically correct verb for reclining. "Lay" requires a direct object, as in "lay the blanket on the grass."