gave a book

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gave a book" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of transferring ownership of a book from one person to another in the past. Example: "Last week, she gave a book to her friend as a birthday gift."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"Or when I gave a book of matches.

The New York Times

Thursday night I gave a book talk at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, which was actually a lovely event.

The New York Times

To my 11-year-old daughter, Florence, I gave a book on the Greek gods.

The New York Times - Travel

The Brinkleys gave a book party for a friend, and everyone played "The-Don't-Think-About-Whatever game".

The New Yorker

I gave a book talk there recently, and it was one of the most engaged crowds I've ever spoken to.

The New Yorker

I gave a book talk and signing at Barnes and Noble in Union Square last night, and B&N graciously had a book party just after.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

From left, FRANCES J. FRAWLEY, JOEL TREISMAN, HAROLYN CARDOZO and MICHAEL H. CARDOZO V.; Nov. 30: Cartier gave a book-signing reception for Jamee Gregory, who wrote "New York Apartments" (Rizzoli).

The New York Times

What gives a book its value?

The New Yorker

He was given a book about diabetes by a doctor.

The New York Times

I was given a book about Berlin for my birthday.

The Guardian

"Each player should be given a book which says 'this is Sunderland Football Club'.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gave a book", consider the context to determine if a more specific verb like "gifted", "presented", or "loaned" might be more appropriate to convey the nuances of the situation.

Common error

Ensure that the tense of "gave" accurately reflects the timing of the action. For instance, avoid using "gave a book" if the action is ongoing or habitual; instead, use "gives a book" or "is giving a book" as needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gave a book" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of transferring ownership of a book from one person to another. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing a past action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62.5%

Science

18.75%

Wiki

6.25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6.25%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gave a book" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the action of transferring a book from one person to another. Ludwig confirms its usage in diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media, but also appearing in scientific and general content. While the phrase is generally neutral, consider more specific verbs to convey nuances such as "gifted", "presented a book", or "loaned a book". Be mindful of using the correct tense to accurately reflect the timing of the action. While some sources are better than others, generally speaking Ludwig AI considers this usage to be acceptable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

presented a book

Emphasizes a more formal or ceremonial act of giving.

gifted a book

Highlights the act of giving as a gift.

handed over a book

Focuses on the physical action of transferring the book.

provided a book

Implies a more general act of supplying or making a book available.

bestowed a book

Suggests a more generous or honorific act of giving.

passed on a book

Indicates the act of giving the book to someone, perhaps after reading it oneself.

loaned a book

Implies a temporary transfer, expecting the book to be returned.

sent a book

Indicates that the book was transferred via mail or courier.

offered a book

Suggests the act of presenting a book for consideration or use.

assigned a book

Indicates a book was given for study or learning purposes.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "gave a book" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases like "presented a book" or "bestowed a book". These alternatives add a sense of ceremony or generosity.

What's the difference between "gave a book" and "gifted a book"?

"Gave a book" is a general term for transferring a book to someone. "Gifted a book" specifically emphasizes that the book was given as a gift.

Is it correct to say "handed a book" instead of "gave a book"?

Yes, "handed a book" is a correct and acceptable alternative. It focuses on the physical act of passing the book to someone.

When should I use "loaned a book" instead of "gave a book"?

Use "loaned a book" when the intention is for the book to be returned to you after a period of time. "Gave a book" implies a permanent transfer.