1. Grammar Troublesome Verbs
let
set
rise
Grammar Troublesome Verbs
raise
lie
lay
leave
sit

2. the wealthy rancheros raised from their seats and went home
The wealthy rancheros rose from their seats and went home.

3. the spanish word el manzano real mean “the royal apple tree.”
The Spanish words el manzano real mean “the royal apple tree.”

4. Troublesome Verbs
Some pairs of verbs are confusing because they have similar meanings or because they look alike.
Sit/set, lie/lay, and leave/let are examples of verbs that are often confused. 4

5. Troublesome Verbs Watch out for lie/lay.
Consider the meanings of these two verbs to check that you are using the correct one. Lie means “rest or recline.” Lay means “put or place.” Try substituting these meanings for the verbs. 5

6. Troublesome Verbs
Example: She lies under the tree. (She rests under the tree.)
She lays under the tree. (She put under the tree.)
The first sentence is correct. 6

7. Troublesome Verbs
Look up troublesome verbs in the dictionary to check their meanings and make sure you are using the correct verb. 7

8. Troublesome Verbs sit sit down sat (has, have, had) sat set
Meaning
Present
Past
Past Participle
sit
sit down
sat
(has, have, had) sat
set
put or place
(has, have, had) set
lie
rest or recline
lay
(has, have, had) lain
laid
(has, have, had) laid
rise
get or move up
rose
(has, have, had) risen
raise
lift something up
raised
(has, have, had) raised
let
allow or permit
(has, have, had) let
leave
go away
left
(has, have, had) left
lend
give to someone
(has, have, had) lent
borrow
get from someone
borrowed
(has, have, had) borrowed
teach
show how
taught
(has, have, had) taught
learn
find out
learned
(has, have, had) learned 8

9. Troublesome Verbs
Test Tip: Are you not sure whether to use sit or set? Lie or lay? Usually set and lay take a direct object, while sit and lie do not.
Examples: Sit next to me. (No direct object) 9

10. Troublesome Verbs Set the vase on the table. (Direct object is vase)
He lies on the bed. (No direct object)
Lay the blanket on the bed. (Direct object is blanket) 10

11. Troublesome Verbs Flashcards and Games
Let’s Practice…
Troublesome Verbs Quiz - Matching
Troublesome Verbs Flashcards and Games
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