What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
give
Example
Can you give me a hand with this heavy box? [give: verb]
Example
The organization gives aid to those affected by natural disasters. [give: verb]
Example
She gave him a book for his birthday. [gave: past tense]
provide
Example
The hotel provides free Wi-Fi for its guests. [provide: verb]
Example
The company provides training for new employees. [provide: verb]
Example
The school provides students with textbooks and other learning materials. [provides: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Give is more commonly used than provide in everyday language. Give is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while provide is more specific and often used in professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between give and provide?
Provide is generally considered more formal than give. It is often used in professional or academic settings, while give is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
