to lay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to lay" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when referring to placing something down or to the act of putting something in a specific position. Example: "Please remember to lay the book on the table when you're finished reading."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

No stones to lay.

The New Yorker

"I'd like to lay back".

The New York Times

Gray was forced to lay off employees.

The New York Times

"Until now, we tended to lay dormant.

The New York Times

They're not going to lay down".

The New York Times - Sports

They helped to lay that groundwork, too.

The New Yorker

"They are starting to lay off employees.

The New York Times

Do I know how to lay bricks?

The New Yorker

Mr. Obama has to lay down his.

The New York Times

Both came to lay flowers.

The Guardian

Which color to lay down?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to lay" in the context of placing something, ensure the object being placed is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "to lay the foundation" rather than just "to lay."

Common error

A common mistake is confusing "to lay" (to place something down) with "to lie" (to recline). Remember that "lay" requires a direct object, while "lie" does not. For example, say "I will lay the book on the table" (correct) versus "I will lie down" (correct).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to lay" functions primarily as a transitive verb in its infinitive form. It describes the action of placing or putting something down, as seen in examples like "to lay flowers" or "to lay the foundation". Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

19%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to lay" is a versatile and frequently used infinitive phrase that means to place something down. It is grammatically sound and commonly found in various contexts, from formal writing to everyday conversation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While its usage is primarily neutral, understanding the subtle differences in meaning and potential confusion with "to lie" is crucial for effective communication. Examples from sources like The New York Times and The Guardian show its widespread application in news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to place

This alternative is more general and emphasizes the act of putting something in a specific location.

to set down

This phrase implies putting something down gently or carefully.

to put down

Similar to 'set down', but can also mean to suppress or quell something.

to deposit

This suggests a more formal or official placement of something.

to position

Emphasizes the careful arrangement of something in a specific location.

to establish

Focuses on setting up or founding something, like a plan or foundation.

to impose

Implies the application or enforcement of something, like a rule or tax.

to attribute

Means to assign or ascribe something to a particular cause or person.

to present

This implies offering something, often formally or officially.

to wager

Relates to betting or risking something on an uncertain outcome.

FAQs

How is "to lay" used in a sentence?

The phrase "to lay" means to place something down. For example, "Remember to lay the newspaper down before you start painting" or "It's time to lay the blame where it belongs."

What are some alternatives to using "to lay"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to place", "to set down", or "to establish".

What is the difference between "to lay" and "to lie"?

"To lay" requires a direct object (e.g., "to lay the book"), while "to lie" does not (e.g., "to lie down"). Confusing them is a common grammatical error.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "to lay" in formal writing?

It is appropriate in many formal contexts, such as when referring to establishing groundwork (e.g., "to lay the foundation") or formally presenting something (e.g., "to lay charges").