on loan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on loan" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that has been temporarily borrowed or lent out from someone else. For example: "The library doesn't own that book, but they can get it from another library on loan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The beacons are provided on loan to hunters and travelers by the local fire department.

Global Health Action

Cardiac output monitoring equipment was provided on loan by LiDCO Ltd.

Critical Care

Everything's on loan.

The New York Times

All on loan.

The Guardian - Sport

On loan I think.

The Guardian - Sport

Both are on loan.

The Guardian - Sport

The crosser is on loan from Lazio.

The New York Times - Sports

"I told Roger he was on loan.

The New York Times - Sports

Sebastian Bassong went to Wolves on loan.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

On-loan Chelsea striker Bamford opens scoring.

BBC

On-loan James Tredwell finished unbeaten on 50.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on loan", clearly specify the duration or conditions of the loan to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The painting is on loan from the museum until December".

Common error

Avoid using "in loan" instead of "on loan". The correct preposition is "on" to indicate the temporary nature of the borrowing or lending arrangement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on loan" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that it is temporarily borrowed or lent. Ludwig AI confirms that this usage is grammatically correct. Examples in Ludwig show it describing items, people, and even abstract concepts like titles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on loan" is a versatile adjective phrase used to indicate that something has been temporarily borrowed or lent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is particularly common in news reporting and scientific publications, but its usage is generally considered neutral. When using "on loan", ensure clarity by specifying the terms or duration of the loan. Avoid the common error of using "in loan". Remember, the primary purpose of "on loan" is to specify the temporary nature of a transfer or possession, highlighting that the item or person will eventually be returned.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporarily borrowed

Focuses specifically on the act of borrowing for a limited period.

lent temporarily

Focuses on the act of lending for a specific period.

on a temporary basis

Emphasizes the limited duration of the arrangement.

out on hire

Implies a formal agreement for temporary use, often involving payment.

under a borrowing agreement

Highlights the existence of a formal or informal agreement for borrowing.

available for a limited time

Highlights the time-bound nature of the availability.

on a short-term lease

Suggests a more formal agreement, typically for property or equipment.

for a specific duration

Emphasizes that the availability is tied to a predetermined time frame.

temporarily assigned

Often used in professional settings to indicate a temporary work arrangement.

with temporary access

Focuses on the access being granted for a limited period.

FAQs

How is "on loan" used in a sentence?

Use "on loan" to describe something temporarily borrowed or lent. For example, "The exhibition features artifacts "temporarily borrowed" from private collections".

What are some alternatives to using "on loan"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "temporarily borrowed", "lent temporarily", or "on a temporary basis".

Is it correct to say "in loan" instead of "on loan"?

No, the correct phrase is "on loan". The preposition "on" is used to indicate that something is temporarily available for use.

What does "on loan" typically refer to?

"On loan" most commonly describes an object, property, or person that is temporarily transferred from one entity to another with the expectation of return. For instance, a football player might be "temporarily assigned" to another team.