Bestow vs. Confer

Attribute	Bestow	Confer
Definition	To give something as a gift or honor	To grant or give something, especially an honor or title
Formality	Can be used in formal and informal contexts	Often used in formal contexts
Usage	Commonly used in literature and formal writing	Commonly used in legal and academic contexts
Origin	Derived from Old English "be-" (about) + "stow" (place)	Derived from Latin "conferre" (to bring together)

Introduction

When it comes to giving someone a gift or an honor, two common verbs that are often used are "bestow" and "confer." While these two words may seem similar in meaning, there are subtle differences between them that can affect how they are used in different contexts. In this article, we will explore the attributes of both "bestow" and "confer" to understand when and how each should be used.

Definition and Usage of Bestow

The word "bestow" is often used to describe the act of giving something as a gift or an honor. When you bestow something upon someone, you are granting them a gift or privilege. This verb is typically used in formal or ceremonial contexts, such as bestowing an award or title upon someone. It implies a sense of generosity and honor towards the recipient.

For example, a king may bestow a knighthood upon a loyal subject as a way of recognizing their service and loyalty. In this context, "bestow" conveys a sense of grandeur and importance, as the act of bestowing something is seen as a significant gesture.

Definition and Usage of Confer

On the other hand, the word "confer" is often used to describe the act of granting a title, degree, or honor upon someone through a formal process. When you confer something upon someone, you are officially granting them a particular status or privilege. This verb is commonly used in academic or professional settings, such as conferring a degree upon a graduate.

For example, a university may confer a doctorate degree upon a student who has successfully completed their doctoral program. In this context, "confer" implies a sense of official recognition and validation, as the act of conferring a degree is a formal process that follows specific guidelines and criteria.

Attributes of Bestow

One of the key attributes of "bestow" is its association with generosity and honor. When you bestow something upon someone, you are giving them a gift or privilege as a gesture of goodwill. This verb is often used in contexts where the act of giving carries a sense of importance and significance.

Another attribute of "bestow" is its formal and ceremonial nature. This verb is typically used in formal settings, such as award ceremonies or royal decrees, where the act of bestowing something is seen as a solemn and dignified gesture. It conveys a sense of respect and admiration towards the recipient.

• Associated with generosity and honor
• Formal and ceremonial nature

Attributes of Confer

One of the key attributes of "confer" is its association with official recognition and validation. When you confer something upon someone, you are granting them a particular status or privilege through a formal process. This verb is often used in contexts where the act of granting carries a sense of authority and legitimacy.

Another attribute of "confer" is its academic and professional connotations. This verb is commonly used in educational or professional settings, such as awarding degrees or titles, where the act of conferring something is based on specific criteria and guidelines. It conveys a sense of accomplishment and achievement for the recipient.

• Associated with official recognition and validation
• Academic and professional connotations

Usage Examples

To better understand the differences between "bestow" and "confer," let's look at some usage examples:

1. The queen decided to bestow a knighthood upon the brave soldier for his heroic actions in battle.

2. The university will confer a bachelor's degree upon the graduating students during the commencement ceremony.

In these examples, "bestow" is used to describe a gesture of honor and generosity, while "confer" is used to describe an official granting of a degree or title.

Conclusion

While "bestow" and "confer" are often used interchangeably in everyday language, they have distinct attributes that make them suitable for different contexts. "Bestow" is associated with generosity and honor, while "confer" is associated with official recognition and validation. Understanding the nuances of these two verbs can help you use them effectively in various situations where giving gifts or honors is involved.