verb

leihen

borrow · lend

Etwas für eine Zeit bekommen oder geben und später zurückbringen oder zurückbekommen.

Definition & meaning

The verb leihen has two primary meanings depending on the direction of the action, similar to how the English words "lend" and "borrow" function, though in German, the context or reflexive pronouns usually clarify the direction.

To lend: This refers to giving someone something for a limited period of time, with the expectation that the object will be returned. For example, "Ich leihe dir mein Buch" (I am lending you my book).
To borrow: When used reflexively with "sich," it means to take something from someone temporarily. For example, "Ich leihe mir ein Buch von dir" (I am borrowing a book from you).

In both cases, the item is transferred without payment (unlike renting) and must be returned in the same condition.

Grammar & Word origin

leihen is a strong (irregular) verb. Its principal parts are:

Präsens: ich leihe, du leihst, er/sie/es leiht
Präteritum: ich lieh
Perfekt: hat geliehen

It is a transitive verb that typically takes a dative object (the person) and an accusative object (the thing).

The word originates from the Old High German līhan, which is related to the Proto-Germanic root lihwanan. This is cognate with the English word "loan" and the Latin "linquere" (to leave). Historically, it carried the sense of "to leave something to someone."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

borgen : A common synonym that can also mean both lend and borrow.
verleihen : Specifically used for "to lend" or "to award" (like a prize).
ausleihen : Often used for borrowing from a library or lending out equipment.
pumpen : A colloquial term for borrowing or lending money.