Conferring: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when people come together to exchange ideas or information, usually in a formal or serious setting. Often implies a formal meeting or discussion among experts.

• The panel was conferring about the next steps in the project.
• After conferring with her colleagues, she decided to implement the new policy.

Used when seeking advice or information from someone, typically an expert or professional. It can also refer to checking a source of information.

• I need to consult my doctor before making any changes to my medication.
• Please consult the manual for further instructions.

Used in a broad sense for any kind of talking or debating about a topic or issue. It can be formal or informal, and involves the exchange of ideas or opinions.

• We need to discuss our plans for the weekend.
• They discussed the new project during the meeting.

Used when carefully considering or discussing something before making a decision. Usually involves weighing all options and thinking deeply about the matter.

• The jury took several hours to deliberate before reaching a verdict.
• We must deliberate on the pros and cons before approving the proposal.

Used when discussing the act of discussing something with someone to exchange ideas or seek advice.

• The committee was conferring to decide the best course of action.
• They spent hours conferring over the details of the contract.

Typically used in a formal or literary context to imply giving something as an honor or gift, often with a sense of reverence or ceremony.

• The university will bestow an honorary degree upon her.
• He was bestowed with the title of 'Knight' for his services.

Used in various contexts to mean formally giving or allowing something that has been requested, often in legal, academic, or official settings.

• The government decided to grant the asylum seeker refugee status.
• The university will grant her request for a sabbatical.

Often used in a formal context to indicate granting or bestowing something, such as an honor, degree, or right.

• The board will confer the scholarship upon the most deserving student.
• They conferred the title of 'Professor Emeritus' on the retiring faculty member.