Bestow vs. Give

Attribute	Bestow	Give
Definition	To present as a gift or honor	To freely transfer the possession of something to someone
Formality	Often used in formal or ceremonial contexts	Can be used in both formal and informal contexts
Emphasis	Emphasizes the act of giving something special or valuable	Emphasizes the act of transferring ownership or possession
Usage	More commonly used in literature or formal settings	Commonly used in everyday language

Definition

Bestow and give are two verbs that are often used interchangeably, but they have subtle differences in meaning. Bestow typically implies a more formal or ceremonial act of giving, often with a sense of honor or privilege attached to it. On the other hand, give is a more general term that simply means to transfer possession of something to someone else.

Intent

When someone bestows something upon another person, it is usually done with a specific intention or purpose in mind. This could be to show appreciation, grant a favor, or confer a blessing. Giving, on the other hand, can be done for a variety of reasons, such as out of generosity, obligation, or necessity.

Formality

Bestow is often used in more formal or ceremonial contexts, such as when a king bestows a title upon a loyal subject or when a prestigious award is bestowed upon an accomplished individual. Give, on the other hand, is a more casual and everyday term that can be used in a wide range of situations, from giving a gift to a friend to donating to a charity.

Emotional Connotation

When something is bestowed upon someone, it often carries a sense of honor, respect, or reverence. The act of bestowing can evoke feelings of gratitude, admiration, or awe. Giving, on the other hand, may not always have the same emotional connotations attached to it, as it can be a more routine or practical action.

Reciprocity

Bestowing something upon someone can create a sense of obligation or reciprocity, as the recipient may feel compelled to return the favor or show appreciation in some way. Giving, on the other hand, may not always come with the same expectations of reciprocity, depending on the context and the relationship between the giver and the recipient.

Examples

Examples of bestowing something upon someone could include knighting a loyal knight, crowning a beauty pageant winner, or granting a scholarship to a deserving student. Giving, on the other hand, could involve giving a birthday present, donating to a charity, or sharing a meal with a friend.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while bestow and give are both verbs that involve transferring possession of something to someone else, they have distinct differences in terms of formality, intent, emotional connotation, and reciprocity. Understanding these nuances can help us use these words more effectively and accurately in our communication.