Synonyms for

Borrowing

Verb / ˈbɑ:rəʊɪŋ / Another word for borrowing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To take and use something that belongs to someone else with the intention of returning it.

Synonyms & similar words

takeup lend adoption takeover borrow adopt lend use take rent lease hire utilize employ draw get obtain acquire solicit beg request petition

Synonyms by register

Formal

acquisition appropriation adoption

Informal

taking nicking swiping pinching

Literary

usurpation plagiarism

Antonyms

lending giving granting bestowing donating contributing

Common collocations

  • borrowing money
  • borrowing books
  • borrowing ideas
  • borrowing heavily
  • borrowing from nature
  • borrowing a car
  • borrowing time

Word family

noun borrowing
verb borrow
adjective borrowed

Usage note

While 'borrowing' often implies temporary use with the intention of returning, it can also refer to the act of taking something without permission, especially in informal contexts. Be mindful of the context to avoid misinterpretation.

Example sentences

  1. I am borrowing my friend's pencil.
  2. Can I borrow your crayons?
  3. I borrowed this book from the library.
  4. I need to borrow some money from my parents.
  5. My sister is borrowing my sweater for the party.

Quotes

  • Borrowing is not much better than begging; just as lending with interest is not much better than stealing. -Doris Lessing
  • There is no shame in borrowing a word that expresses what we feel. -E.A. Bucchianeri
  • Borrowing knowledge of reality from all sources, taking the best from every study, Science of Mind brings together the highest enlightenment of the ages. -Ernest Holmes

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