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Mr. Tom Posted 16 years ago
Vocabulary

The use of "lay" but native speakers


Hi

I hear native speakers use "lay" in the sense of "lie" all the time. Why is that? Is it informal?

Why don't you lay down for a while?

Thanks,

Tom
  

Top answer

I hate this usage. As you say, it's pervasive. It may be that some regional versions of English can claim this as a legitimate use of "lay".

— Mr Wordy

  • I hate this usage.
  • As you say, it's pervasive.
  • It may be that some regional versions of English can claim this as a legitimate use of "lay".
  • For example, in the UK, I think it is more common in certain regional dialects.
  • For everyone else, it is just plain illiterate.
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4 Answers
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I hate this usage. As you say, it's pervasive.

It may be that some regional versions of English can claim this as a legitimate use of "lay". For example, in the UK, I think it is more common in certain regional dialects. For everyone else, it is just plain illiterate.
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Mr. TomWhy don't you lay down for a while?
It's just a very common mistake, because the words are so similar in sound and in meaning. (And, of course, the past tense of "lie" is the same as the present tense of "lay.") I might say it myself if I wasn't paying attention, even though I know it's incorrect.
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khoffI might say it myself if I wasn't paying attention, even though I know it's incorrect.
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Right. When you find yourself saying "Why don't you go lay..." you can quickly change it to "... yourself on down for a little nap" and preserve your dignity.
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