Provide
UK //prəˈvaɪd//US //prəˈvaɪd//
Definition
To supply or make available something that is needed.
In simple words: To give something that is needed.
Examples
- The charity will provide food for the homeless.
- I can provide you with the information you need.
- They provide necessary support for the students.
- The hotel aims to provide excellent service.
- We must provide our clients with quality products.
- The government plans to provide better healthcare.
- Can you provide a summary of the report?
- She will provide assistance during the event.
Usage notes
Use 'provide' when discussing giving something necessary or essential. Generally neutral but can be formal in legal contexts.
Grammar pattern
provide + object
Memory hint
Think of a 'provider' like a waiter giving you food.
Collocations
- provide assistance
- provide support
- provide information
- provide resources
- provide care
Synonyms
- supply
- furnish
- deliver
- offer
- give
Antonyms
- withhold
- deny
- deprive
Common mistakes
- Confusing with 'supply' which has a slightly different scope.
- Using 'provide' without an object, which is incorrect.
- Using a wrong preposition; 'provide to' is less common than 'provide with'.