Offer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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offer

[ˈɔfər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

business

An offer is a proposal to provide a product or service at a specified price or under specific conditions. It is a formal declaration of willingness to enter into a contract.

Synonyms

bid, invitation, proposal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
offer

Used when providing something to someone for their acceptance or rejection.

  • She made an offer to buy the house
  • He offered to help with the project
proposal

Used when making a formal or detailed suggestion, typically requiring consideration or approval.

  • The board reviewed the new proposal for the merger
  • He made a proposal to change the company's structure
bid

Used when attempting to gain or win something, often in a competitive context, like auctions or tenders.

  • They placed a bid on the antique vase
  • Our company submitted a bid for the construction project
invitation

Used when requesting someone's presence or participation in an event or occasion.

  • They sent me an invitation to their wedding
  • We received an invitation to the conference

Examples of usage

  • She received a job offer from a prestigious company.
  • The offer includes free shipping for orders over $50.
Context #2 | Verb

business

To offer means to present or propose something for acceptance. It involves making something available for someone to use or take.

Synonyms

present, propose, provide.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
offer

Use 'offer' also when talking about presenting something for consideration or as a suggestion.

  • He offered an interesting solution to the problem.
  • The professor offered a different perspective on the issue.
present

Use 'present' when you are formally showing or displaying something, often in a professional or official setting.

  • The scientist will present her findings at the conference.
  • He presented his new idea to the team.
propose

Use 'propose' when you are suggesting an idea, plan, or action for others to consider. It is often used in a formal context.

  • She proposed a new strategy to improve sales.
  • They proposed a toast to the happy couple.
provide

Use 'provide' when you are giving something necessary or wanted to someone, often in terms of supplies, information, or services.

  • The hotel provides free Wi-Fi to all guests.
  • He provided all the necessary documents for the application.

Examples of usage

  • He offered his assistance in completing the project.
  • The store offered a discount on all products for a limited time.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, an offer is a proposal to enter into a contract, representing a willingness to create a binding agreement.
  • An offer must be clear and definite for it to be accepted legally, otherwise, it may be seen as an invitation to negotiate.
  • Understanding offers is crucial in law, as they determine how agreements are formed and what each party is expected to do.

Business

  • In business, companies make offers in the form of promotions, discounts, or job proposals to attract customers or candidates.
  • The concept of an 'offer' is fundamental in sales strategies, where closing a deal often hinges on the right offer to the customer.
  • Special offers are crucial during seasonal sales as they draw in more customers and boost sales volumes.

Psychology

  • In social interactions, when one person offers something (like friendship or support), it can strengthen relationships and foster trust.
  • The act of making an offer can trigger feelings of gratitude and reciprocity in the recipient, affecting social bonds positively.
  • Offers can also be interpreted differently based on cultural contexts; what is considered friendly in one culture might be seen as intrusive in another.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'I offer my services' is common in movies, often used by characters who want to help or join a team.
  • In various romantic films, the act of one character offering their heart or feelings to another becomes a pivotal moment in the storyline.
  • Reality TV often revolves around offers, whether it's proposing a deal in business shows or romantic offers in dating contests.

Origin of 'offer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'offer' comes from the Latin word 'offerre', meaning to present, show, or bring before.
  • It entered Middle English through the Old French term 'oferer', which also meant to present or propose.
  • In its original sense, it was related to both 'giving' and 'bringing forth' a choice to others.

The word 'offer' originated from the Old English word 'offrian', meaning 'to present in a religious ceremony'. Over time, it evolved to signify presenting something for acceptance or consideration in various contexts, especially in business transactions and social interactions.


See also: offering, offeror, offers.

Word Frequency Rank

At #936 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.