WordGarden.iooffer
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɒfə/
US
- /ˈɔfər/
Meanings
Verb
say that you are willing to give, do, or provide something
make something available or provide it as part of a service, program, or range
Noun
a proposal or expression of willingness to do, give, pay, or arrange something
a special bargain or reduced-price promotion
Beyond the definition
To offer something is to present it for acceptance, whether it is a helping hand, a cookie, or a formal proposal. A baker might offer fresh bread, and a friend might offer support during a difficult time. You can also offer an opinion or say something like, "I offer my sincere apologies." Sometimes, an offer is a formal business arrangement, such as a job offer that sets the terms of employment. At heart, it is about giving something willingly and inviting someone to accept it.
The word offer has a surprisingly versatile meaning! At its core, to offer means to present or proffer something to someone, whether tangible like an object or intangible like help, advice, or a suggestion. The sentence "She offered him a seat" implies she made it available for him to take.
But offer goes beyond simple presentation; it carries the implication of willingness and invitation. When you offer assistance, you are not just capable of helping; you are actively expressing your readiness to do so. "He offered to carry her bags" shows proactive kindness.
In legal or business contexts, an offer takes on a more formal meaning—it is a proposal outlining specific terms for acceptance. A job offer, a sales offer, or even a peace offer all involve defined conditions. If the other party accepts, a binding agreement is typically formed.
As a noun, an offer is simply what is presented: "She made him an offer he couldn't refuse." It can also refer to the act of bidding in auctions or real estate: "He placed an offer on the antique vase." Whether it is a gesture of kindness, a formal proposal, or a tempting price, offer always involves extending something with the hope of acceptance. It is about giving and inviting, presenting and proposing—a fundamental act of connection and exchange.
Examples
- 1
Hospitality
She offered me a cup of tea when I arrived.
- 2
Helpful action
He offered to drive us to the station.
- Patternoffer to do X
say you are willing to do it
- 3
Business service
The company offers free delivery on orders over $50.
- 4
Advice
My teacher offered some useful advice before the exam.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Customer support
We can offer support in several languages.
- 6
Job offer
I was offered a job in Boston, but I decided to stay here.
- 7
Accepting work
I accepted their offer and started work in June.
- 8
Buying a home
They made an offer on the apartment, but someone else bid higher.
- Patternmake an offer on + home/property
say how much you are willing to pay for it
- 9
Discount
The store has a special offer on laptops this week.
- Phrasespecial offer
a temporary deal or lower price
- 10
Formal apology
The director offered an apology after the mistake became public.
- Phraseoffer an apology
apologize, often in a formal way
- 11
Value
The course has a lot to offer, especially for beginners.
- Phrasehave a lot to offer
provide many useful or good things
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- offernounverb
Forms
- offeredpast tenseverbnoun
- offerspluralnounverb
- offering-ing formverbnoun