Provide Meaning
Provide Definition & Usage
To supply or make available something needed or desired.
Examples
- "The hotel provides free Wi-Fi for all guests."
- "They provide the necessary tools for the job."
- "The organization aims to provide aid to communities in need."
- "Parents are expected to provide food and shelter for their children."
- "The charity provides scholarships to underprivileged students."
To make something available or present as a formal requirement or condition.
Examples
- "The company agrees to provide the requested documents by the end of the month."
- "The agreement provides that each party will contribute equally to the project."
- "The law provides for the protection of intellectual property rights."
- "The contract provides for an annual bonus based on performance."
- "The will provides for the distribution of assets to the heirs."
To make plans or arrangements for something to occur or be available in the future.
Examples
- "The school provides for extracurricular activities after hours."
- "The event provides for the possibility of networking with industry leaders."
- "She provided for her retirement by investing wisely over the years."
- "The program provides for a wide range of career development opportunities."
- "The fund provides for future research in environmental conservation."
Cultural Context
'Provide' has its roots in the Latin word 'providere', meaning 'to foresee, to look ahead', which ties into its modern sense of supplying or ensuring that something is available. It is widely used in everyday language, business, and legal contexts, often when discussing the availability of services, resources, or future plans.
The Promise of the Future
Story
The Promise of the Future
At the small town's annual charity event, Ellie found herself in a lively discussion with a group of local volunteers. Their task? To provide assistance to the less fortunate in the community. Ellie, an accountant, had always been passionate about helping others, but today she was particularly focused on the charity’s plans for the coming year. "So, how are we planning to provide for the increased demand this year?" Ellie asked, holding up a clipboard. The committee had been preparing for months, and it was clear they needed additional funding and volunteers to meet the community's growing needs. "We’ll provide free meals to more families, especially during the holiday season," answered Mark, the event coordinator. "Also, we’re setting up a program to provide school supplies for children from low-income families." Ellie nodded thoughtfully. As a volunteer coordinator herself, she knew how vital it was to provide both immediate help and long-term support. "We’ll need to provide extra staff for the events," she said. "And we should also think about providing for those who might need help after the event is over, like transportation or housing assistance." "Great point, Ellie. We need to ensure that what we provide isn’t just a temporary fix but a lasting solution," Mark replied. Later that evening, Ellie met with a few local businesses, discussing how they could provide sponsorship for the charity’s new programs. "We’re providing for future generations with these initiatives," she remarked as she handed out brochures. In the end, Ellie’s hard work paid off. By the end of the year, the charity had provided food, clothing, education, and even employment opportunities to many families in need. It was a testament to how, with careful planning and commitment, providing for a community could change lives. "What we provide today shapes the future," Ellie thought as she closed her office door for the night. She was proud to be part of something so meaningful, knowing that her work was about more than just supplies—it was about providing hope and opportunity.
Related Words
