Lend vs. Borrow Explained: Learn the Difference

Many English learners often mix up the words "lend" and "borrow." This confusion is understandable, but once you know the difference, it becomes much clearer. In simple terms, "lend" means giving something temporarily to someone, while "borrow" means taking something for a short period.

Imagine you’re at a bank, and you need money. You would ask the bank to lend you money, meaning they give it to you for a while. On the other hand, you borrow the money from the bank, meaning you take it with the intention of returning it later.

In our video, David is confused by these two words, but Sophia clears it up. The bank lends David money, and David borrows money from the bank. Remember this simple trick: if you’re the one giving, use "lend." If you’re the one receiving, use "borrow."

Watch the video above for a real-world example to help you master "lend" and "borrow" in your everyday conversations