confer

Imagine a king facing a difficult decision. He doesn't just decide on his own; he *confers with his advisors—meaning he talks it over with them and asks for their opinions. But "confer" isn't only about asking advice. It can also mean to officially give something, like a degree or an honor. A university doesn't simply hand you a diploma; it confers* the degree upon you after you meet all the requirements. So, whether it's a serious discussion or an official award, "confer" has a formal feel.

To confer means to consult with someone, usually to arrive at a decision. It implies a formal or serious discussion, often between people who have some level of responsibility or expertise. For example, saying "the lawyers conferred before presenting their case" suggests they discussed strategy privately before moving forward.

However, "confer" also has another distinct meaning: to bestow or grant something upon someone. This usage is most often seen in academic or official contexts. For instance, "the university will confer honorary degrees on several distinguished alumni" means the university will formally award them those honors. Think of it as the act of bestowing a title or status of high importance.

Historically, "confer" comes from the Latin word conferre, meaning "to bring together" or "to compare." This root explains both meanings—bringing minds together for discussion or bringing an honor to a recipient.

You might hear it used in phrases like "conferring with colleagues," "the conferral of degrees," or "they conferred a title upon him." It is a formal word, often found in professional or academic settings. So, whether you're talking about a serious discussion or the official granting of an honor, "confer" points to something done in a careful, formal way.