bestow
C1/C2Formal, literary
Definition
Meaning
To give something of value or significance to someone, often as an honour or a gift.
To apply or use something (like time, attention, or effort) in a particular context; to present or endow with something intangible, such as a title, right, or privilege.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb implies that the giver is in a position of superiority, favour, or authority. It suggests a deliberate, considered act of giving, often with a sense of ceremony or solemnity. The recipient is typically passive in the action. It can be used for both tangible items (an award) and intangible qualities (blessing, honour).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Equally formal in both variants.
Connotations
Connotes formality, ceremony, and an act of grace or favour from a higher authority (e.g., monarch, deity, committee).
Frequency
Used with similar, relatively low frequency in both formal writing and speech.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] bestows [Object] on/upon [Recipient][Subject] bestows [Object] (e.g., The committee bestowed the highest honour.)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “bestow a favour upon someone”
- “to bestow a kiss (archaic/poetic)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Might appear in formal contexts like 'The board bestowed full executive powers upon the new CEO.'
Academic
Common in historical, legal, and religious studies (e.g., 'The king bestowed lands upon his loyal supporters.')
Everyday
Very rare in casual conversation. Used for emphasis in formal situations (e.g., 'I'd like to bestow this family heirloom on you.')
Technical
Occasionally in legal contexts regarding rights or titles.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The Queen will bestow a knighthood upon him at Buckingham Palace.
- It is a privilege to bestow this award on such a deserving scholar.
American English
- The foundation bestowed a generous grant on the research team.
- The Constitution bestows certain inalienable rights upon all citizens.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The teacher bestowed a prize on the winning team.
- They bestowed a new name on the puppy.
- The university bestowed an honorary doctorate upon the celebrated author.
- Ancient rulers often bestowed gifts upon their favoured allies.
- The treaty bestowed exclusive fishing rights on the coastal nation.
- She felt unworthy of the praise that had been bestowed upon her.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
BESTOW = BE (to exist as) + STOW (to store/place). Think of it as 'to place or store an honour/gift *onto* someone.'
Conceptual Metaphor
GIVING IS TRANSFERRING AN OBJECT (often of value) DOWNWARDS (from a higher status to a lower one).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не путать с 'сохранить' (to preserve) или 'устроить' (to arrange/organise).
- Ближайший перевод — 'даровать', 'пожаловать', 'присвоить (звание)'.
- Не использовать для обычной передачи предмета из рук в руки.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect preposition: 'bestow *to* someone' (correct: 'bestow *on/upon* someone').
- Using it in overly casual contexts where 'give' is more appropriate.
- Confusing subject/object roles: The giver is the subject, the gift is the object, the recipient follows 'on/upon'.
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'bestow' correctly?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a formal word used primarily in written English, ceremonies, and formal speeches. In everyday conversation, 'give' or 'award' is far more common.
The correct prepositions are 'on' or 'upon'. 'Upon' is slightly more formal. The pattern is: bestow something on/upon someone. Using 'to' is incorrect.
Typically, it is used for positive or neutral acts of giving (honours, rights). Using it for negative things (e.g., 'bestow a curse') is possible but creates an ironic or literary effect.
'Bestow' is much more formal and implies the giver has a certain authority, prestige, or is conferring something special. 'Give' is the general, neutral term for transferring possession.