What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
provide
Example
Can you provide me with some information about your company? [provide: verb]
Example
The hotel will provide towels and toiletries for their guests. [provide: verb]
supply
Example
The store will supply all the necessary equipment for the camping trip. [supply: verb]
Example
The hospital is running low on medical supplies. [supply: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supply is more commonly used than provide in everyday language, especially when referring to physical items or materials. However, provide is still a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between provide and supply?
While both words can be used in formal and informal contexts, provide is generally considered more formal than supply. Therefore, provide may be more appropriate in professional or academic settings, while supply may be more appropriate in casual or everyday conversations.