What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
afford
Example
I can't afford to buy a new car right now. [afford: verb]
Example
We can't afford to take a vacation this year. [afford: verb]
Example
I can afford to take a day off work next week. [afford: verb]
provide
Example
The company will provide us with laptops for remote work. [provide: verb]
Example
The school provides free meals to students in need. [provide: verb]
Example
The hotel provides a shuttle service to the airport. [provide: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provide is more commonly used than afford in everyday language. Provide is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while afford is less common and is typically used in financial or personal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between afford and provide?
Both afford and provide can be used in formal and informal contexts, but provide is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.