Lending: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the act of giving something, usually money, to someone for a period of time with the expectation that it will be returned.

• The bank is known for its lending policies.
• Lending money to friends can sometimes strain the relationship.

Similar to lending, but usually refers to more casual or personal situations.

• He is loaning his friend some money to help with the rent.
• Loaning books to classmates can be tricky if they don't return them.

Used when discussing the means of raising funds or providing resources for a business, project, or purchase.

• We secured financing for the construction of the new building.
• Car dealerships often offer financing options for buyers.

Used to describe borrowed money or a financial arrangement where a buyer uses borrowed money to pay for goods or services but agrees to pay back the lender over time.

• She was approved for a line of credit to renovate her house.
• Credit cards offer convenience but can lead to debt if not managed properly.

General term used when allowing someone to use something temporarily, usually with the expectation of it being returned.

• She is lending her car to a friend for the weekend.
• The library is lending books to members for two weeks.

Used when someone is temporarily giving someone else something, with the expectation of getting it back. It often implies lending without much concern for formalities.

• The coach is loaning out some players to other teams for practice.
• He's always loaning out his tools to neighbors.

Often used in libraries to describe the movement and borrowing of books and other materials. It can also refer to the distribution of items more broadly.

• The library's circulation desk is where you go to check out books.
• Circulation of this magazine has increased dramatically over the past year.

Specifically refers to the practice of letting someone borrow a book, commonly used in the context of libraries or personal book collections.

• The library offers a book lending service for all registered users.
• I am starting a book lending club in my neighborhood.

Used in general contexts when money or items are temporarily given to someone with the expectation of return.

• The library is lending books to the students for free.
• My friend is lending me some money until payday.

Typically used in financial contexts when referring to a sum of money borrowed that is expected to be paid back with interest.

• He took a loan from the bank to buy a car.
• Student loans are a common way to fund higher education.

Commonly used in financial and commercial contexts where a line of credit is extended to an individual or business.

• The store provides credit to its loyal customers.
• Banks often provide credit to help small businesses grow.

Commonly used when money is given ahead of time, often referred to as an 'advance payment' or 'cash advance'.

• The company provided an advance on his salary for the upcoming month.
• She asked for an advance to cover the travel expenses.