provide

[prəˈvaɪd]

provide Definition

  • 1to give someone something that they need or want
  • 2to make it possible for something to happen

Using provide: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "provide" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The hotel provides towels and toiletries for its guests.

  • Example

    We need to provide more support for new teachers.

  • Example

    The company will provide training for all employees.

  • Example

    The law provides protection for whistleblowers.

provide Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for provide

Antonyms for provide

Idioms Using provide

  • to offer emotional support to someone who is upset or distressed

    Example

    When her dog died, her friends provided a shoulder to cry on.

  • to offer ideas or information that stimulate thinking or discussion

    Example

    The speaker's presentation provided plenty of food for thought.

  • to deliver what is expected or promised

    Example

    The company promised to provide the goods by the end of the week.

Phrases with provide

  • to take care of someone by giving them the things they need, such as food, clothing, or money

    Example

    He works hard to provide for his family.

  • to take action to prevent something from happening

    Example

    The company has taken steps to provide against future losses.

  • to give someone something that they need or want

    Example

    The school provides students with textbooks and other learning materials.

Origins of provide

from Latin 'providere', meaning 'to foresee, attend to'

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Summary: provide in Brief

The verb 'provide' [prəˈvaɪd] means to give someone something they need or want, or to make something possible. It can be used in phrases like 'provide for,' which means to take care of someone, and 'provide against,' which means to take action to prevent something from happening. Idioms like 'provide a shoulder to cry on' and 'provide food for thought' describe offering emotional support or stimulating ideas. 'Provide' is a formal word that can be replaced with 'supply' or 'furnish' in formal contexts.

How do native speakers use this expression?