Can you tell what is the difference between the words ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’? Most people think that both these words are the same and can be used interchangeably. So are they right? Can these words be used interchangeably? Are these words synonymous? Almost every student is confused with these kinds of questions. So this article will walk you through everything that you need to know about the words ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’. Once students go through this article, it will be easier for them to understand and use these terms correctly in sentences.
There are many such words present in the English Language that often put the students in a tight spot. The reason being words like ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’ appear to have similar meanings, and students assume them to be synonymous and interchangeably usable, but that is not the case in reality. So, to make sure that one doesn’t get confused while using the words ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’, the following points will be discussed about the difference between these words.
- Table Summarising the Difference between Lend and Borrow.
- The Difference between Lend and Borrow – Meanings
- Examples of Lend and Borrow
- Lend and Borrow – Conclusion
Table Summarising the Difference between Lend and Borrow
| Lend | Borrow | |
| Meaning | The word lend is used while giving someone something which will be returned after use. | The word borrow is used when someone is using something from another person, and it has to be returned after a particular period of time. |
| Usage | It is used as a Verb. | It is used as a Verb. |
| Example | Can you lend me a pencil? | Mr Roger borrowed some money from his neighbour. |
This table shows that though ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’ appear to have similar meanings, they can never be treated synonymously, and neither can they be used interchangeably. For students who previously got confused about how or when to use the words ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’, this table will help them understand how they can use these words correctly in sentences of their own. Once they understand the difference between these words, they can apply them in the correct context.
The Difference between Lend and Borrow – Meanings
If you don’t know what the difference between the words ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’ is, then you might think that both these words mean the same, but there’s a minor difference between them. When you are using the word ‘lend’, it means you are giving someone something that belongs to you or taking something from someone else on the understanding that it will be returned after use. While lending, there’s the chance that the person who is being given the thing might not return it in future. For example, ‘I lend my umbrella to my friend who forgot to return it.’ Whereas when you use the word ‘borrow’, it’s implied that the thing that’s taken has to be returned after a particular time, for example, ‘Can I borrow the library book for a week?’
Examples of Lend and Borrow
The following examples will help students understand ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’ quite clearly.
Lend – Emily used to lend me her colours when we were in school. (verb)
Borrow – The farmer borrowed a large sum of money from the bank and agreed to return it after two years. (verb)
Once students understand this difference between the words ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’, they can easily use them in the proper contexts.
Lend and Borrow – Conclusion
In conclusion, though the words ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’ mean giving someone something, they can neither be used synonymously nor can be used interchangeably. This article points out the difference between ‘lend’ and ‘borrow’ to make it easier for students to put them in sentences correctly. Apart from this, BYJU’S also offers various articles on many such ‘Differences Between Two Words’ that students often get confused with.
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