What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lender
Example
The bank is the lender for my mortgage. [lender: noun]
Example
She agreed to be the lender for my business venture. [lender: noun]
Example
He is a generous lender of his tools to his neighbors. [lender: noun]
loaner
Example
The dealership gave me a loaner car while mine was being fixed. [loaner: noun]
Example
Can I borrow your laptop as a loaner until I get mine back from the repair shop? [loaner: adjective]
Example
She's always been a great loaner of her clothes and accessories to her friends. [loaner: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lender is a more common word than loaner in everyday language, especially in financial contexts. Loaner is less common and often used in specific situations, such as borrowing a replacement item while the original is being repaired.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lender and loaner?
Lender is typically associated with a formal tone, especially in financial contexts. Loaner is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.