In some countries the term 'lager' is applied only to the most basic beers. In general, however, the term applies to any bottom fermenting beer.

Beers made with a lager yeast will ferment on the bottom of the fermenting vessel, while ales which are brewed using an ale yeast will form a pancake type layer on top of the fermenting beer.

All beers are either ales or lagers - depending on the yeast used.