offer
To present something to someone so that they can choose to accept it or refuse it. It can involve giving a physical object, providing help, or suggesting a price or idea.
Examples
3 of 5Can I offer you a glass of water?
Can I offer you a glass of water?
The university will offer a scholarship to the best student.
The university will offer a scholarship to the best student.
I can offer to help you with your bags.
I can offer to help you with your bags.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'O' in 'Offer' as an open hand held out to give something to a friend.
Quick Quiz
Did the boss ____ you the new job yesterday?
Correct!
The correct answer is: offer
Examples
Can I offer you a glass of water?
everydayCan I offer you a glass of water?
The university will offer a scholarship to the best student.
formalThe university will offer a scholarship to the best student.
I can offer to help you with your bags.
informalI can offer to help you with your bags.
This research offers a new perspective on climate change.
academicThis research offers a new perspective on climate change.
The company decided to offer him the manager position.
businessThe company decided to offer him the manager position.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
special offer
special offer
make an offer
make an offer
on offer
on offer
Often Confused With
To provide means to make something available; to offer emphasizes the act of asking if the other person wants it.
To give is the direct act of transferring; to offer is the step before giving, where the recipient can still say no.
Usage Notes
The word 'offer' can be followed by a noun (offer a drink) or an infinitive with 'to' (offer to help). It is commonly used in both social and professional situations.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'offer for' when they mean 'offer to'. Use 'offer to [do something]' for actions.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'O' in 'Offer' as an open hand held out to give something to a friend.
Word Origin
From the Latin word 'offerre', which means 'to bring before' or 'to present'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking cultures, it is polite to offer guests a drink or snack as soon as they arrive at your home.
Quick Quiz
Did the boss ____ you the new job yesterday?
Correct!
The correct answer is: offer
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