Getting Laid: Writing tips from us that will make you write more good.

We here and A.D. Writing like to think we are getting laid. You know, understanding all that verb business.

The verb lie is a very confusing one. Not commonly focused on in schools, it is a very peculiar word because of its overlapping spellings when in use with the words lay and lie (as in a false statement). So, what is the correct verb tenses and spellings?

For the word "Lie" - To lie down upon a surface
  • (Present tense) Lie - "Have a seat, or lie down."
  • (Past tense) Lay - "Jonathan lay back down."
  • (Past participle) Lain - "The fish had lain out of water for some time."

For the word "Lay" - The past tense of the verb Lie
  • (Present tense) Lay - "Have a seat, or lie down."
  • (Past tense) Laid - "She laid his coat down on the chair."
  • (Past participle) Laid - "They have laid their books across the room."

For the word "Lie" - To speak a false statement
  • (Present tense) Lie - "She will always lie to you."
  • (Past tense) Lied - "You lied to me!"
  • (Past participle) Lied - "They have lied to get what they want."

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Last Updated: June 2, 2006