proffer
/proffer/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb:
- To present or offer something for acceptance or rejection. It implies a gesture of giving or extending something, often formally or politely, for someone to take if they wish.
Noun:
- An act of offering or presenting something for acceptance. It refers to the thing that is offered or the proposal itself.
Usage and Examples
Verb:
- She proffered her resignation to the manager. (She formally offered her resignation.)
- He proffered a glass of water to the guest. (He politely offered a glass of water.)
- The lawyer proffered new evidence during the trial. (The lawyer presented new evidence for consideration.)
Noun:
- His proffer of help was gratefully accepted. (His offer of help was accepted.)
- The committee rejected the financial proffer from the donor. (The committee turned down the financial offer.)
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- Formal and Polite Connotation: "Proffer" often carries a tone of formality, courtesy, or deference. It is more formal than the simple verb "offer."
- The diplomat proffered a peace treaty to the opposing nation.
- Implied Freedom of Choice: The act of proffering typically leaves the acceptance or rejection entirely to the recipient.
- She proffered an apology, hoping he would accept it.
Variants and Related Words
- Proffering (gerund/noun): The act of offering something.
- The proffering of gifts is a common custom.
- Proffered (adjective): Describes something that has been offered.
- The proffered advice was sound.
Synonyms
- Verb: Offer, present, extend, tender, submit.
- Noun: Offer, proposal, suggestion, tender.
Antonyms
- Verb: Withhold, withdraw, refuse, retain.
- Noun: Refusal, rejection, denial.
Idiomatic and Figurative Usage
- To proffer one's hand: This is a common phrase meaning to extend one's hand, typically for a handshake, to help someone, or as a gesture of greeting or alliance.
- He proffered his hand in friendship. (He extended his hand as a sign of friendship.)
- Proffer an explanation/opinion/apology: A common collocation for formally or politely giving a reason, view, or expression of regret.
- She felt obliged to proffer an explanation for her late arrival.
Noun
- a proposal offered for acceptance or rejection
- it was a suggestion we couldn't refuse
Verb
- present for acceptance or rejection
- She offered us all a cold drink