secure a loan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secure a loan" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it any time you need to refer to getting or obtaining a loan, such as in a business plan that states: "In order to expand our operations, we will need to secure a loan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In August 2007 a typical asset-backed security would secure a loan worth 95% of its face value; now it fetches a mere 30%.

The Economist

It would be a pleasure to secure a loan from him.

The New Yorker

That yielded enough for the 25 percent down payment that I needed to secure a loan.

The New York Times

The result is that many consumers are making larger down payments to secure a loan.

The New York Times

"When you secure a loan or home equity line, a full appraisal is generally required.

The New York Times

If you are turned down for a loan, we cannot secure a loan for you.

Cornell University

However, it is understood cash-strapped Bologna are stalling as they seek to secure a loan against the repayments.

Independent

Our case study last week examined the efforts of a bicycle shop owner in Princeton, N.J., to secure a loan.

The New York Times

The government is so corrupt and secretive it has failed to secure a loan from the International Monetary Fund.

The Economist

The organization and Mr. Pickens contend that Lincoln's agents promised to help secure a loan to cover those premium payments.

The New York Times

Alternatively, if you have spent some time away – say, teaching abroad – to secure a loan, write a covering letter.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing a formal document, use "secure a loan" to convey a sense of accomplishment or certainty in obtaining the loan. For example: "After presenting a comprehensive business plan, the company was able to "secure a loan" from a major financial institution."

Common error

Avoid using "secure a loan" when the outcome is uncertain. Instead, use phrases like "apply for a loan" or "seek a loan" to indicate an ongoing process rather than a guaranteed result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secure a loan" functions as a verb phrase where "secure" acts as a transitive verb, requiring a direct object ("loan"). This phrase is used to describe the action of successfully obtaining a loan. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable form in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "secure a loan" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies the successful acquisition of a loan. Ludwig indicates that it is appropriate for various contexts, mainly appearing in news, academic, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects a successful outcome rather than an ongoing attempt. Alternatives such as ""obtain financing"" or ""acquire a loan"" can be used to add nuance or formality. Avoid using "secure" if the loan is not yet guaranteed, and remember that credit score, income, and a solid business plan are crucial factors in the process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get a loan

Uses the more common verb "get" instead of "secure", making the phrase slightly more informal.

acquire a loan

Uses the more formal verb "acquire" in place of "secure", suggesting a deliberate effort to obtain the loan.

obtain financing

Replaces "loan" with the more general term "financing", implying a broader range of funding sources.

arrange a loan

Focuses on the act of organizing and finalizing the loan agreement.

procure a loan

Emphasizes the effort and resources required to obtain the loan.

access credit

Shifts the focus to the availability and utilization of credit rather than the specific act of obtaining a loan.

draw down funds

Implies accessing pre-approved funds or a line of credit.

raise capital

Uses a broader term for acquiring funds for business or personal use.

find funding

Highlights the search for and identification of potential loan sources.

guarantee a loan

Changes the subject to being the guarantor and not the receiver of the loan.

FAQs

How can I use "secure a loan" in a sentence?

You can use "secure a loan" to describe the act of successfully obtaining a loan, as in, "The company managed to "secure a loan" despite the challenging economic climate."

What are some alternatives to "secure a loan"?

Alternatives include "obtain financing", "get a loan", or "acquire a loan", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "secure a loan" or "get a loan"?

"Secure a loan" often implies a more formal or challenging process, suggesting that effort was required to obtain the loan. "Get a loan" ("get a loan") is more general and can be used in less formal contexts.

What factors influence the ability to "secure a loan"?

Factors such as credit score, income, assets, and the strength of a business plan can all influence one's ability to "secure a loan". Lenders assess these factors to determine the risk associated with providing the loan.