These two words are a source of trouble for many learners of English. Reason? They have roughly the same meaning, but the action of each word goes in different directions.
Difference between borrow and lend
Learn to use borrow, lend and the difference between them on a very simple and useful condition.
1. How to use "borrow"?
To take or use something that belongs to another person, examples:
- He had borrowed a car from one of his colleagues.
- I'd like to borrow your umbrella.
- Today must borrow nothing of tomorrow.
- He may well be contented who need neither borrow nor flatter.
- I've arranged that we can borrow their car.
- Can I borrow a hair dryer?
- Can I borrow your pen for a minute?
- May I borrow your pen?
- May I borrow ten dollars?
- Can I borrow a couple of bucks?
- Borrow beckoned to me from across the street.
- Can I borrow your umbrella?
2. How to use "lend"?
Grant to (someone) the use of (something) on the understanding that it shall be returned, examples:
- Khalifa asked me to lend him my car.
- I can lend you my umbrella.
- Lend your money and lose your friend.
- He that doth lend, doth lose his friend.
- A ready way to lose friend is to lend him money.
- Can you lend me your car this evening?
- Pen. Can yon lend me one?
- Lend me your coat brush.
- Can you lend me some money until tomorrow?
- She must be crazy to lend him money.