Learn the difference between borrow and lend in this English lesson.
Borrow vs lend can be confusing. However, after looking at the examples below, I’m sure you’ll understand it.
Watch the video and then, read on below.
The Difference Between Borrow and Lend
Here is the main difference:
To borrow something means to receive something as a loan/temporarily. We use the preposition from.
To lend something means to give something as a loan/temporarily. We use the preposition to.
For example:
- Can I borrow your umbrella?
- I lent my umbrella to Declan.
The best way to understand the difference is to learn many examples. This way, you will be able to use these terms without thinking about them.
Here are more examples:
- Can you ask Paul if you can borrow his car for the evening?
- I lent my jacket to Sarah but I need to back for tomorrow.
- Can you lend me your lawn mower for an hour or two?
- Can I borrow your lawn mower for an hour or two
Notice the last two examples? They mean the same thing.
And even more examples:
- Who did you borrow this bike from?
- Why did you lend that to him? He never returns anything.
- If I asked nicely, do you think they would let me borrow their grill for the evening?
- Ask him if you can borrow it for a while.
