Which of the following sentences uses the correct form of the verb "to lay"?

Word Usage & Collocations — Preparation

This question tests your understanding of Word Usage & Collocations, a key topic in the English Language section. The detailed solution above uses a step-by-step approach to show the reasoning, and where available, a shortcut that helps you solve similar questions in under 90 seconds during the actual exam.

Collocations are words that naturally go together in English. We conduct a study, refute an argument, propose a theory and analyse data. Saying "make a study" or "do an argument" is understandable but sounds wrong to a native speaker. Word usage questions test whether you know which verb, noun, adjective or preposition belongs with which word. They often appear as match-the-following questions, such as matching verbs with the nouns they usually take, or as questions asking which word best completes a phrase. The only reliable way to prepare is to learn words in pairs and phrases instead of on their own. Group common collocations by theme, for example academic writing (conduct research, draw a conclusion, pose a question), business (meet a deadline, run a business, make a profit) and everyday life (take a decision, pay attention, catch a cold). In the exam, say the phrase in your head and choose the combination that sounds natural. Eliminate options by matching the pairs you are sure of first, which usually leaves only one possible answer. Practise the word usage and collocation questions below. Each solution explains why the words go together.