borrower
A borrower is an individual, organization, or country that receives something, typically money or a book, with the agreement that it will be returned or paid back later. In a financial context, it refers to a party who takes out a loan from a bank or lender and is obligated to repay the principal plus interest.
Examples
3 of 5The borrower returned the library books two weeks past the due date.
The person who took the books returned them two weeks late.
Each prospective borrower must undergo a rigorous credit check before the loan is approved.
Every person applying for a loan must have their financial history checked before approval.
My brother is a chronic borrower of my tools and he never puts them back.
My brother always takes my tools and never returns them.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'ow' in borrower: the borrower 'owes' the money back to the lender.
Quick Quiz
The bank decided that the _______ was a low risk because of her high credit score and stable job.
Correct!
The correct answer is: borrower
Examples
The borrower returned the library books two weeks past the due date.
everydayThe person who took the books returned them two weeks late.
Each prospective borrower must undergo a rigorous credit check before the loan is approved.
formalEvery person applying for a loan must have their financial history checked before approval.
My brother is a chronic borrower of my tools and he never puts them back.
informalMy brother always takes my tools and never returns them.
The study analyzes how interest rate hikes affect the average student borrower's ability to manage debt.
academicThe research looks at how higher interest rates impact students who have taken out loans.
The bank classifies him as a high-risk borrower due to his inconsistent income history.
businessThe bank views him as a risky person to lend to because his income is not steady.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Neither a borrower nor a lender be
Advice suggesting it is best to avoid both borrowing and lending to keep good relationships.
chronic borrower
Someone who has a habit of constantly taking things from others.
borrower of last resort
An entity that only borrows when no other financial options are available.
Often Confused With
A borrower receives the item/money, while a lender gives it.
While similar, 'debtor' specifically emphasizes the legal obligation to pay, whereas 'borrower' focuses on the act of taking.
Usage Notes
The term is most frequently used in financial sectors (banks, loans) and library settings. It can also describe someone who habitually takes small personal items from friends or family.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'borrower' when they mean 'lender'. Remember: 'B' is for Borrower and 'B' is for 'Buying' time or using someone else's assets.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'ow' in borrower: the borrower 'owes' the money back to the lender.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old English word 'borgian', which meant to give a pledge or security for a debt.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many Western cultures, a borrower's reputation is quantified by a 'credit score', which determines their future ability to take out loans.
Quick Quiz
The bank decided that the _______ was a low risk because of her high credit score and stable job.
Correct!
The correct answer is: borrower
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