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loan

borrowed sum / to lend
Transitive Verb[C/U] Both
pl: loanspast: loanedpp: loaneding: loaning

This term carries a heavy sense of obligation and temporary possession. It is the standard terminology for formal financial transactions, though it is frequently used in casual settings for small favors between friends. In a financial context, it implies a legal contract and the inevitable cost of interest.

While often used interchangeably with borrow, loan focuses on the perspective of the giver. Using loan as a verb is common in North American English, whereas British English traditionally prefers lend for the action of giving and loan for the noun referring to the sum of money.

Countable when referring to a specific financial agreement or a single object lent (a bank loan). Uncountable when referring to the general act of lending money as a business practice.

Meanings

Nounborrowed sum

A sum of money that is borrowed and expected to be paid back with interest.

The bank granted him a small business loan.

Transitive Verbto lend
[~ someone][~ something]

To give something to someone for a period of time, expecting it to be returned.

Can you loan me your umbrella until tomorrow?

Examples

The bank approved his application for a student loan.

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Could you loan me your car for the weekend?

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Phrasal Verbs

loan out

to lend something to someone for a temporary period

The library allows patrons to loan out books for up to three weeks.

Related Words

Last Updated: July 13, 2026Report an Error