WordGarden.ioconfer
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /kənfˈɜː/
US
- /kənˈfɜr/
Meanings
Verb
to discuss something with someone in order to exchange views or advice
to give or provide a title, right, benefit, quality, or honor
Beyond the definition
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.
Examples
- 1
Medical decision
The doctors conferred before deciding on the best treatment.
- 2
Workplace approval
I'll need to confer with my manager before I approve the budget.
- Patternconfer with + person
discuss something with them before making a decision
- 3
Diplomacy
The two presidents conferred privately after the summit.
- 4
Official honor
The university conferred an honorary degree on her last year.
- Patternconfer + honor/title on + person
give it officially
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Legal status
This visa does not confer the right to work in the country.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- consult with
- take counsel
Contrast
- decide unilaterally
- announce
Used with (collocations)
- confer with someone
- confer about a matter
- confer privately
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- conferverb
Forms
- conferredpast tenseverb
- confersverb
- conferring-ing formverb