Understanding “Confer”: Definition and Synonyms
confer – Definition and Part of Speech
The word confer is primarily used as a verb, meaning to grant or bestow something (usually an honor or right) upon someone, or to hold discussions for the purpose of sharing ideas or making decisions. It can also imply granting authority or power.
Core Synonyms
Here’s a table presenting some key synonyms and their nuances:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| bestow | Implies giving an honor, gift, or right | “The university will bestow honorary degrees at the graduation ceremony.” | Formal/Official |
| grant | Often used for rights or permissions | “The government has decided to grant amnesty to those affected by the policy change.” | Neutral/Formal |
| discuss | Focuses on exchanging ideas through dialogue | “The team met to discuss the new project proposals.” | Casual/Neutral |
| confer with | Involves a formal or detailed discussion | “She was asked to confer with her colleagues before making a decision.” | Formal/Slightly Informal |
| award | Primarily used in contexts involving recognition | “He was awarded the employee of the month for his outstanding performance.” | Neutral/Formal |
Usage Notes
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Bestow is often employed in formal or ceremonial contexts, especially when discussing honors such as awards and titles. It carries a sense of solemnity and significance.
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Grant is versatile but frequently used in legal or administrative settings where rights, permissions, or privileges are being provided.
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Discuss is the most common synonym for engaging in conversation or dialogue. It’s appropriate across various contexts, from casual conversations to more structured business meetings.
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Confer with suggests a slightly more formal exchange, often involving decision-making processes or consultations with higher authority. It can also imply an expectation of expertise or experience from those involved in the discussion.
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Award is specifically used when giving out honors or recognition for achievements, typically in official settings like ceremonies or announcements.
Common Pitfalls
One common mistake learners might make is using “confer” interchangeably with synonyms like “discuss” without recognizing the formal nuance that “confer” carries. While you can discuss matters casually, to confer usually suggests a more formal exchange aimed at reaching decisions or sharing expert insights. Additionally, it’s important not to confuse grant (which often involves giving rights) with bestow, which is typically associated with awards and honors.
Final Recap
To summarize, while confer primarily refers to granting or discussing, its synonyms provide subtle differences in meaning and context:
- Bestow: Granting an honor or gift formally.
- Grant: Providing a right or permission, often used in official contexts.
- Discuss: Engaging in a conversation, suitable for various situations.
- Confer with: Holding formal discussions, usually to reach decisions or consult experts.
- Award: Giving recognition or honors.
Each synonym offers unique nuances that can enrich your writing and speaking. To master these terms, practice by using them in sentences relevant to different contexts—whether drafting a business proposal, preparing an academic paper, or engaging in casual conversations. This will help you convey precise meanings and intentions effectively.