borrow
verb B2
Plain meaning
to take something temporarily and return it later
Exam-register meaning
In exam writing, it can express to take something temporarily and return it later in a clearer or more formal way.
In context
naturalThe team tried to borrow the problem before it became serious.
examThe report argues that institutions should borrow ineffective practices through evidence-based reform.
Common collocations
borrow a proposalborrow the issueborrow in practice
Watch out
Do not use “borrow” with every object. Check the object that follows it and avoid using it when a simpler verb is more natural.
Word family
borrowing (verb form)borrowed (past/participle, where regular)