Borrowed: meaning, definitions and examples

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borrowed

 

[ ˈbɔːr.oʊd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

action of borrowing

To borrow means to take and use something belonging to someone else with the intention of returning it. This action usually involves an agreement between two parties, where the borrower is permitted to use the item for a specific period. Commonly, borrowing applies to money but can also refer to books, tools, or other possessions. It is essential that the item is returned in its original condition or compensated for if damaged. Borrowing fosters trust and responsibility.

Synonyms

acquire, loan, rent, take.

Examples of usage

  • I borrowed a book from the library.
  • She borrowed money to buy a car.
  • He borrowed my laptop for the meeting.
  • They borrowed an umbrella during the rain.

Translations

Translations of the word "borrowed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 emprestado

🇮🇳 उधार लिया हुआ

🇩🇪 geliehen

🇮🇩 dipinjam

🇺🇦 позичений

🇵🇱 pożyczony

🇯🇵 借りた

🇫🇷 emprunté

🇪🇸 prestado

🇹🇷 ödünç alınmış

🇰🇷 빌린

🇸🇦 مستعار

🇨🇿 půjčený

🇸🇰 požičaný

🇨🇳 借来的

🇸🇮 izposojen

🇮🇸 lánað

🇰🇿 қарызға алынған

🇬🇪 გადაწვდილი

🇦🇿 borc alınmış

🇲🇽 prestado

Etymology

The word "borrowed" originates from the Old English term "borrowing," which means to give and take. It was derived from the Proto-Germanic root *berganą, which refers to the act of sheltering or preserving. Over time, the meaning of borrowing evolved to encompass the temporary acquisition of items or resources. The term has been widely used in various contexts, ranging from financial transactions to the borrowing of intangible concepts like ideas or language. English has a rich history of incorporating terms from different languages, contributing to the complexity of its vocabulary. The concept of borrowing is fundamental in many aspects of life, emphasizing the principles of trust and reciprocity that are prevalent in societal interactions.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,075 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.