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Borrowed - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Borrowed means to take or use something temporarily with the intention of returning it. It often refers to items, money, or ideas taken from another person or source.

borrowed

/ˈbɑroʊd/ /ˈbɒrəʊd/

Definition:

Taken or received temporarily with the intention of returning it.

Synonyms:

lent, taken, appropriated, adopted

Part of Speech:

verb, adjective

Antonyms:

returned, owned

Common Collocations:

borrowed time, borrowed money, borrowed book

Derivatives:

borrower, borrowing

Usage Tips:

Use "borrowed" for temporary possession; ensure context clarifies the intent to return.

Common Phrases:

living on borrowed time, borrowed plumes, in borrowed robes

Etymology:

From Old English "borgian," meaning to lend or borrow, related to security or pledge.

Examples:

  • 1. She borrowed my pen for the exam.
  • 2. He returned the borrowed book yesterday.
  • 3. They borrowed money from the bank.
  • 4. The idea was borrowed from another culture.

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