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
Idioms Using provide
Example
When her dog died, her friends provided a shoulder to cry on.
Example
The speaker's presentation provided plenty of food for thought.
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.
Example
The company has taken steps to provide against future losses.
Example
The school provides students with textbooks and other learning materials.
Origins of provide
from Latin 'providere', meaning 'to foresee, attend to'
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.