moneylender

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moneylender" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a person or entity that lends money, typically at interest, often in a legal or financial context. Example: "In many cultures, the moneylender plays a crucial role in providing financial support to those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The village moneylender, limited by his need to know those he did business with, was gradually superseded by ever-broader impersonal markets that can cheaply mobilise colossal sums and sell more complex products.

The Economist

In Nagaram, where Mrs Anthaiah still has to pay off the moneylender with only her own labour to sell, her self-help group is arranging a loan to tide her over.

The Economist

For many people, the only source of credit is a pawnshop or a moneylender who may charge staggeringly high interest and beat up clients who fail to pay on time.

The Economist

But the couple, who had borrowed to build this house, also owed 34,000 rupees to a local moneylender, who charged over 50%.Even so, Anthaiah's name features on a government list of 85 MFI "victims", who had taken their own lives by November 16th.

The Economist

Women are also less likely to get credit, whether from a bank or a more informal moneylender.

The Economist

"He has the moneylender waiting at the door every day and taunting him .None of this is globalisation's fault.

The Economist

It is also less than half the rate a moneylender would charge or what a poor borrower would end up paying for a bank loan.

The Economist

Miserly bishops are shown being whipped with their own moneybags; St Anthony causes a usurer's heart to be found in a strongbox; a moneylender meets the figure of Death.

The Economist

Around 14m people, or 10% of the population, have borrowed from a moneylender, or sarakin.

The Economist

So the moneylender could always find him, and that made the suit-cutter creditworthy.In Dharavi, a Mumbai slum with perhaps 1m inhabitants, many alleys are too narrow to turn a wheelbarrow around.

The Economist

The first Edinburgh girls' school, the Merchant Maiden Hospital, was opened in 1605, and construction of Heriot's Hospital (now George Heriot's School), a school endowed by the bequest of the goldsmith, moneylender, and philanthropist George Heriot, began in 1628.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "moneylender", consider the context and connotations. It can sometimes imply unfair or exploitative practices, so choose it carefully.

Common error

Be mindful of the negative connotations associated with "moneylender". If you intend to convey a neutral or positive image, consider using alternatives like "lender" or "financial provider".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "moneylender" is that of a noun, identifying a person or entity engaged in the business of lending money. Ludwig shows it's frequently used to describe characters in literature or historical contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moneylender" is a noun that refers to someone who lends money, often at interest. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While the term is frequently used, it can carry negative connotations, so consider using alternatives like "lender" or "financial provider" depending on the context. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media and Encyclopedias, and less frequently in scientific or informal contexts. Remember to be mindful of the connotations to ensure the correct message is conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lender

A simpler and more direct term for someone who lends money.

loan provider

This term is more general and may refer to a formal institution or an individual.

credit supplier

Focuses on the act of supplying credit rather than the person.

usurer

This term usually implies charging excessively high interest rates; has a negative connotation.

financial backer

Emphasizes the financial support aspect of lending.

loan shark

Like "usurer", this term carries a negative connotation and suggests illegal or unethical lending practices.

private creditor

Highlights the private, non-institutional nature of the lending.

pawnbroker

Someone who lends money against collateral.

finance company

A more formal term, suggesting a larger lending institution.

mortgage provider

Specifically refers to lending for real estate.

FAQs

What is the difference between "moneylender" and "lender"?

"Moneylender" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting high interest rates and possibly unethical practices. "Lender" is a more neutral and general term for someone who provides loans.

Is "moneylender" an offensive term?

While not inherently offensive, "moneylender" can evoke negative stereotypes associated with usury and exploitation. Consider your audience and the context when using this term.

What are some synonyms for "moneylender"?

Synonyms include "usurer", "loan shark", "lender", and "credit supplier". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "moneylender" in a sentence?

Example: "The villagers were often at the mercy of the local moneylender, who charged exorbitant interest rates." Ensure the context clarifies whether the portrayal is neutral, negative, or positive.