Lay is often used where lie is considered standard, as in "I'm going to lay down for a quick nap." The use, which dates to the 14th century, troubled no one until the 18th, but since then, people who care about such things have tried to teach the rest of us that a person lies, not lays, down. A lie is an assertion that is believed to be false, typically used with the intention of deceiving or misleading someone. [1][2][3] The practice of communicating lies is called lying.

Understanding the Context

A person who communicates a lie may be termed a liar. LIE definition: 1. to be in or move into a horizontal position on a surface: 2. If something lies in a particular….

Key Insights

Learn more. A lie is something that someone says or writes which they know is untrue. "Who else do you work for?"—"No one."—"That's a lie." I've had enough of your lies. What are some different types of lies or forms of deception? How can lying and deception affect relationships and society?

Final Thoughts

1. To be decided by, dependent on, or up to: The choice lies with you. 2. Archaic To have sexual intercourse with. (of objects) to rest in a horizontal or flat position: The book lies on the table. to be or remain in a position or state of inactivity, subjection, restraint, concealment, etc.: to lie in ambush.

The secret lies in those cryptic symbols that begin every web address. fault/blame/responsibility lies with somebody The Communist Party's paralysis is one factor, but the prime responsibility lies with Labour's manic political caution. Lies: With Taylor King, Laurie Henderson, Elvira Tröger, Max Raines. A Grifters ex-lover re-appears after she vanished a year earlier with $30,000.00 of his money.