What's the Difference Between 'Born' and 'Borne'?

In this blog post we look at when to use born and when to use borne.

'Born' or 'Borne'?

"Born" and "borne" are two words that are often confused because they are spelled similarly and have similar sounds when pronounced. However, they have different meanings and are used in different contexts.

"Born" is the past participle of the verb "bear," and it is used to describe someone's place of birth or origin. For example: "She was born in New York City."

"Borne" is the past participle of the verb "bear," and it is used to describe something that has been carried or carried by someone or something. For example: "The diseases were borne by the contaminated water."

Both of the words relate to the verb “bear” but the word “born” is used only when referring to birth.  The word “borne” is used in all other senses of the verb “to bear” meaning to carry.

In summary, "born" is used to describe someone's place of birth or origin, while "borne" is used to describe something that has been carried or carried by someone or something.

Here are some additional examples to illustrate the difference between "born" and "borne":

  • "Born" examples:

    • "I was born in Chicago." (used to describe the place where someone came into the world)

    • "She was born into a family of musicians." (used to describe someone's family background or origin)

  • "Borne" examples:

    • "The flag was borne by the soldiers into battle." (used to describe something that was carried or carried by someone)

    • "The baby was borne by the midwife to the hospital." (used to describe something that was carried or carried by someone)

Examples of Born in a Sentence

Here are 10 example sentences using the word "born":

  1. "She was born in New York City."

  2. "He was born into a wealthy family."

  3. "They were both born on the same day."

  4. "I was born in Chicago."

  5. "She was born into a family of musicians."

  6. "He was born in the month of May."

  7. "The baby was born at 2:00 AM."

  8. "She was born with brown eyes."

  9. "He was born in the year 1995."

  10. "The twins were born prematurely."

Examples of Borne in a Sentence

Here are 10 example sentences using the word "borne":

  1. "The diseases were borne by the contaminated water."

  2. "The flag was borne by the soldiers into battle."

  3. "The baby was borne by the midwife to the hospital."

  4. "The goods were borne by the truck."

  5. "The banner was borne by the parade organizers."

  6. "The torch was borne by the Olympic runner."

  7. "The coffin was borne by the pallbearers."

  8. "The flowers were borne by the bridesmaids."

  9. "The gift was borne by the messenger."

  10. "The message was borne by the messenger pigeon."


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Born or Borne
Born or Borne