American Dictionary

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Definition offer in American English

offer verb

verb
/ˈɔfər/

Ways of offering something to someone, and of accepting or refusing an offer

the most usual way of offering something to someone or inviting them to do something

a more informal way of offering something to someone

a more formal way of asking someone if they would like something

used for offering someone something that you think they will enjoy

an informal way of asking someone if they would like something

used for offering something to a group of people

used especially when offering someone food or drink

used when asking someone what they want, especially in a restaurant, bar or café

used as a polite way of accepting something that someone has offered you

used to say what you would like to eat or drink, especially in a restaurant

used for politely refusing something that someone has offered you

used for politely refusing food or drink that someone has offered you

an informal way of politely refusing food or drink that someone has offered you

Examples:

Would you like a magazine to read while you’re waiting?” “Thanks – that would be great.”

Do you want another cup of coffee?” “No thanks – I have to get going.”

Would you care for dessert?” “Yes, thank you, I’ll have the apple pie, please.”

What would you say to a nice cup of hot chocolate before you go to bed?” “Yes, please!

How about some ice cream?” “No, thank you. I’m on a diet.”

Who wants the last piece of cake?” “I couldn’t, thanks – I’ve already had two slices.”

Can I get you anything? There’s plenty of food in the fridge.” “Thank you, but I ate before I came out.”

“It’s my turn to buy the drinks. What would you like?” “I’ll have a beer, please.”

“Would you like salad with your pizza?” “Not for me, thanks.”

1

to let someone know that you will give them something if they want it

Example

They haven't offered me the job yet.

Example

He had offered cocaine to an undercover police officer.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to say that you will pay a particular price for something

Example

I offered Jim $5,000 for his car.

Example

Police are offering a reward to anyone with information about the crime.

Synonyms and related words
1.2

to let someone know that you are willing to do something for them

Example

Actually, Jen's giving me a lift home - but thanks for offering.

Example

I do think you should have offered to help.

Synonyms and related words
2

to provide something such as a product or service

Example

The department offers a course on Medieval Philosophy each year.

Example

Smaller hotels often offer greater comfort at lower prices.

Example

We'll be happy to offer you all the assistance we can.

Example

The city has a lot to offer the business traveler.

Synonyms and related words
3

to give someone something that you think they need or deserve

Example

A lot of people have offered us very useful advice.

Example

Susan still hasn't offered an explanation for her absence.

Synonyms and related words
3.1

to express your feelings toward someone

Example

offer sympathy/regrets/thanks

Example

He called the team manager to offer his congratulations.

Synonyms and related words
Definition offer in American English