ENGLISH
REFERENCE

lends

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɫɛndz// UK //lˈɛndz// lends

v. to give something to someone for a short time, expecting them to return it. It can also mean that a quality makes something better or more suitable for a specific purpose.

v. to grant the temporary use of something on the condition that it be returned. When used figuratively, it indicates that a specific quality contributes to or enhances the character of a situation or object.


SIMPLE

The library lends books to students for two weeks.

CONTEXTUAL

The soft lighting lends a romantic atmosphere to the restaurant, making it popular for dates.

COMPLEX

The historical setting lends an air of authenticity to the novel, though the author takes significant liberties with the actual timeline of events.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Transitive; often follows the pattern 'lends something to someone' or 'lends something to a situation'.

Pitfall

He lends money from the bank.He borrows money from the bank.Learners often confuse 'lend' (to give) with 'borrow' (to take).

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