loans - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
loans Word Meanings
- money borrowed with a promise to pay it back
- something received temporarily that must be returned
- the act of lending or borrowing money
loans Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
loans Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ləʊn/
US
/loʊn/
loans Word Etymology
Root: loan = to lend, with the suffix - (no additional affix); Historical origin: Old English 'lan' → Middle English 'loan' → Modern English; Memory image: Imagine someone handing you a book, saying 'I loan this to you', representing the idea of borrowing and lending.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I rub the rough edge of a note between my fingers and slide it across the counter, watching the numbers shift. I set a plan in my head, keeping an eye on what I can let go of and what I must keep. The loan feels like a small weight I hold steady, a promise that changes hands and timing as life moves forward. When I hand it over, I feel the change in my routine and the tiny tug of responsibility guiding me to use it wisely.
Real Context
Loan is a word with several closely related meanings in English. It can refer to money borrowed from someone else with a promise to repay, often with interest. It can also describe something given temporarily that must be returned, such as a library book or a friend’s umbrella. In addition, loan encompasses the act of lending or borrowing money itself, including the process of agreeing on terms, interest, and repayment schedules. Learners should notice that loan is primarily a noun, but loan can function as a verb in phrases like loan someone money, though more common verbs are lend and borrow. Distinguishing these senses helps avoid confusing unrelated words like rent or debt.
Usage Reminders
- Loan is the thing or the act of lending; it is not the same as 'borrow'.
- Use 'lend' for giving temporarily and 'borrow' for receiving.
- Common phrases: take out a loan, pay back a loan, loan agreement.
- Avoid using 'loan' to mean simply 'to borrow'; use 'borrow' for the action.
- Related terms include principal and interest; know their roles in a loan.
Common Misconceptions
- Loan always means the act of borrowing, not the thing borrowed.
- Loan and lend are the same verb; loan is often less common as a verb than lend.
- A loan always involves money; it can also refer to objects or services.
- Confusing loan with rent or debt is common among beginners.
- Saying 'to loan out money' is awkward; 'to lend money' is more natural.
Thinking Differences
In English, loan centers on money or items and uses fixed collocations like take out a loan; learners often overgeneralize to other verbs or contexts.
Learning Tips
- Master the two main senses (money loan and item loan) with distinct examples.
- Practice common collocations: take out a loan, pay back a loan, loan agreement.
- Differentiate loan from lend and borrow using quick substitution tests.
- Pay attention to verbs: loan is less common as a verb; prefer lend/borrow.
- Learn loan-related terms: principal, interest, repayment schedule.
- Use real-life examples to reinforce when a loan is involved.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'loans'?
A.Gifts given to friends
B.Borrowing money that must be repaid
C.An investment strategy
D.A type of transportation
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'loans' correctly?
A.He made loans for his new car.
B.They enjoy playing loans on the weekends.
C.She found loans a fun hobby.
D.I like to eat loans with breakfast.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'loans'?
A.Gifts
B.Mortgages
C.Donations
D.Rewards
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word for 'loans'?
A.Savings
B.Donations
C.Givings
D.Investments
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context when 'loans' might be used?
A.Many people take out loans to buy a house.
B.She went shopping to buy some groceries.
C.He enjoys riding his bike after work.
D.The sun sets beautifully at night.
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