What does "lies" mean?

1. (to be in a flat position) to be in a flat or horizontal position on a surface. 2. (to tell something untrue) to say something that you know is not true.

Is it correct to say "He lies the book on the table."?

No — say "He lays the book on the table.". Use 'lies' for a person or thing resting itself; use 'lays' when someone puts an object down.

lies

US //ˈɫaɪz// UK //lˈaɪz// lies

1 to be in a flat position (v.)
A2 Elementary

to be in a flat or horizontal position on a surface.

to be in or assume a horizontal or resting position on a supporting surface. This intransitive sense does not take a direct object.

Example

The cat often lies on the sofa all afternoon while the house is quiet.

Example

The small village lies at the base of the mountain range, sheltered from the harsh northern winds by a dense forest of ancient pines.
- rests
- reclines
- stands
- rises
Pitfall

He lies the book on the table.

He lays the book on the table.

Use 'lies' for a person or thing resting itself; use 'lays' when someone puts an object down.
2 to tell something untrue (v.)
A2 Elementary

to say something that you know is not true.

to make a statement that one knows to be false with the intent to deceive.

Example

He lies about his age because he wants to look younger.

Example

The witness frequently lies under pressure, making it difficult for the jury to establish a reliable timeline of the evening's events.
- deceives
- misleads

Idioms3 entries