Borrowing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the action of taking something (usually money) from someone with the intention of returning it. Common in casual conversations and everyday situations.

• I'm borrowing my friend's bike for the weekend
• She needed some extra cash, so she's borrowing money from her parents

This term is commonly used when discussing a formal arrangement in which money is borrowed with an agreement to be paid back, usually with interest. It is frequent in financial or business contexts.

• She took out a loan to buy a new car
• The bank approved his loan application for his new business

This word has a negative connotation and refers to the state of owing money to someone or an institution. It is often used in financial discussions.

• He is drowning in credit card debt
• The company is trying to pay off its debt to the bank

Usually involves receiving money ahead of the usual time, such as a salary advance or an advance on a project. Often used in professional or formal settings.

• She asked for an advance on her salary to cover unexpected expenses
• The author received an advance from the publisher for her next book

When referring to taking something with the intention of giving it back later. Common in financial contexts or when referring to ideas and practices taken temporarily.

• He made a quick borrowing from his friend to pay the bill.
• The novel makes extensive borrowing from classical literature.

When referring to the act of taking something as one's own, often permanently. Commonly used in contexts like adopting a child, a pet, or new practices and ideas.

• Their family is excited about the adoption of a new puppy.
• The global adoption of digital technology is transforming industries.

When referring to including something as part of a larger whole, often officially or legally. Common in business, legal, and formal contexts.

• The incorporation of new technologies has boosted productivity.
• The incorporation of the town was officially recognized last year.

When referring to bringing goods or ideas from one place to another, particularly from one country to another. Common in business, trade, and economic contexts.

• The company imports electronics from Japan.
• The import of foreign cultural practices can enrich local traditions.

This generally refers to taking something temporarily with the intention of returning it. It can be used in various situations such as borrowing money, books, or tools.

• She is borrowing a book from the library
• John is borrowing $50 from his friend

Often used in financial contexts to refer to borrowed money that is expected to be paid back with interest. It can also refer to borrowing other items, but it is more formal.

• He took out a loan to buy a car
• The library offers a two-week loan period for books

Commonly used in retail settings or when dealing with libraries. It refers to the process of borrowing an item, especially books or equipment, and recording the transaction.

• You need to checkout this book before leaving the library
• There is a self-checkout machine for easier service

This refers to giving something to someone temporarily with the expectation that it will be returned. This term is usually from the perspective of the person giving the item.

• She is lending her bicycle to her neighbor
• The bank is lending money to small businesses