Offer
What it means
To present help, an idea, or an opportunity for someone to accept.
Reach for it when describing help, value, or opportunity presented for another person to choose
The community center will offer free evening classes.
Words to choose between 8
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm |
|
| professional | |
| formal |
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everyday
Fits when acceptance is assumed and plain language is enough
Careful Give removes the recipient's choice and can imply transfer already occurred.
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everyday
suggest
Fits when a possible idea is shared lightly
Careful Suggestion is weaker and less committal than offering action or resources.
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warm
Fits when help is initiated without being asked
Careful Volunteer normally applies to one's own time or service, not any offering.
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professional
make available
Fits when access is the practical result
Careful Availability does not show that anyone personally offered it.
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professional
Fits when something is formally placed before an audience
Careful Presentation does not necessarily leave a real choice to accept.
-
professional
propose
Fits when an idea or course is put forward for consideration
Careful Propose fits plans and terms, not a cup of tea or practical help.
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professional
Fits when delivery rather than choice is central
Careful Provide implies the recipient receives it, while an offer can be declined.
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formal
extend
Fits when courtesy, welcome, or an invitation is ceremonially given
Careful Extend is formal and unnatural for most objects or services.
Opposites 3
- withhold
- withdraw
- deny
Common phrases 3
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offer help
Several neighbors came forward to offer help after the storm.
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offer an option
The clinic will offer an option that avoids weekday travel.
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offer guidance
Mentors offer guidance without making the decision for the student.
Word family 1
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated