English UsageComparison guide
Borrow vs. Lend
“Borrow” describes receiving or using something that belongs to someone else with the expectation of returning it. “Lend” describes giving something to someone temporarily with the expectation of getting it back.
You borrow something from someone; you lend something to someone. The same temporary transfer is described from opposite sides.
Key details
Borrow Rolereceive/use temporarily
Lend Rolegive temporarily
Termsborrow, lend
Choose the right form
| Perspective | Use | Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| receiver | borrow | borrow X from Y |
| giver | lend | lend X to Y / lend Y X |
Further guidance
Direction Test
If the thing moves toward you for temporary use, you borrow it; if it moves from you to another person, you lend it.
Object Pattern
Common patterns are “borrow something from someone” and “lend someone something” or “lend something to someone.”
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Lend or borrow? — English Grammar Today (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Direction-of-transfer distinction between lend and borrow