provide

UK:*UK and possibly other pronunciationsUK and possibly other pronunciations/prəˈvaɪd/US:USA pronunciation: IPA and respellingUSA pronunciation: IPA/prəˈvaɪd/ ,USA pronunciation: respelling(prə vīd)

Inflections of 'provide' (v): (⇒ conjugate)
provides
v 3rd person singular
providing
v pres p
provided
v past
provided
v past p
WordReference Collins English Usage © 2025
provide
‘provide with’
To provide something that someone needs or wants means to give it to them or make it available to them. You say that you provide someone with something.
They provided him with money to buy new clothes.
We can provide you with information that may help you to find a job.
Be careful
You must use with in sentences like these. Don't say, for example, ‘They provided him money to buy new clothes’.
‘provide for’
You can also say that you provide something for someone.
The animals provide food for their young.
The hospital provides care for thousands of sick children.
Be careful
Don't use any preposition except for in sentences like these. Don't say, for example ‘The animals provide food to their young’.
If you provide for someone, you regularly give them the things they need, such as money, food, or clothing.
Parents are expected to provide for their children.
If he dies, will the family be provided for?
Be careful
You must use for in sentences like these. Don't say, for example, ‘Parents are expected to provide their children’.
'provide' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):

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