bestow
/bi'stou/
Definition
- Verb:
- To give something as a gift or honor: To present or confer something, often formally or as an act of generosity.
- To apply or devote something (like time or effort): To put something to use or dedicate it to a particular purpose.
Usage
- The verb "bestow" is typically used in formal or literary contexts. It is often followed by the preposition "on" or "upon" to indicate the recipient of what is given.
- It describes the act of granting something valuable, such as an award, title, quality, or attention.
Examples
- Formal Granting:
- The king will bestow a knighthood upon the brave soldier.
- The foundation bestows its annual prize on an outstanding young scientist.
- Applying a Quality:
- Her wise counsel bestows great confidence on the team.
- The gentle lighting bestowed a warm and cozy atmosphere on the room.
Advanced Usage
- "to bestow one's favor/attention on someone": To give someone special approval, kindness, or notice.
- The celebrity bestows her attention only on a few select charities.
- "to bestow a name": To give a name formally.
- They bestowed the name "Hope" upon their new ship.
Variants and Related Words
- Bestowal (n): The act of bestowing; a grant or gift.
- The bestowal of the award was a great honor.
Synonyms
- Confer: To grant or bestow (a title, degree, benefit).
- Present: To give something formally.
- Endow: To provide with a quality, ability, or asset.
- Award: To give something as a prize or recognition.
Antonyms
- Withhold: To refuse to give something.
- Deprive: To take something away.
Related Phrases
- "Bestow upon": The most common phrasal construction.
- Great responsibility was bestowed upon the new leader.
Verb
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bestow a quality on
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Her presence lends a certain cachet to the company
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The music added a lot to the play
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She brings a special atmosphere to our meetings
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This adds a light note to the program
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give as a gift
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present
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The university conferred a degree on its most famous former student, who never graduated
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bestow an honor on someone
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