What is offer? Pronunciation and usage in English

offer means . Learn how to pronounce and use offer through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of offer

offerverb/noun

/ˈɒfə/
Definition & pronunciation of offer

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "offer" in English. Here's a breakdown of the sounds and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (for accuracy):

  • /ˈɒfər/ (This is the IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet)

2. Breakdown by Sounds:

  • ˈ (This is a primary stress mark – it indicates the strongest part of the word)
  • ɒ (This is the "ah" sound, like in "father" or "hot". It's a short, rounded vowel.)
  • f (as in 'fun') - pronounced as it looks, with a soft "f" sound.
  • ər (This is a schwa sound – a very relaxed, neutral vowel sound. It's like the "a" in "about" or "so").

3. How to Say It (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with the "ah" sound: Make a wide, relaxed "ah" sound as in "father."
  2. Add the "f" sound: Gently blend in the "f" sound right after the "ah."
  3. Finish with a schwa: Without changing the vowel sound, smoothly transition into the short, relaxed "uh" sound (schwa) at the end – like the “uh” in “about.”

4. Mimicry & Practice:

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them:

  • Saying "off-er": The emphasis is on the first syllable ("off").
  • Using a long "o" sound: Don't say "off-ur" – keep that first "o" short and rounded.
  • Forgetting the schwa: The final "er" sound is often dropped, which changes the pronunciation.

Do you want me to:

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Usage and examples with the word offer in English

Let's break down how to use the word "offer" in English. It's a really versatile word with several different meanings and ways to incorporate it into sentences.

1. As a Verb (to present something as a possibility)

This is the most common use of "offer." It means to present something for someone to accept or decline.

  • Basic Structure: Offer + [Noun/Gerund]
    • Example: "I offer you my help." (Simple present tense)
    • Example: "She offered to carry my bags." (Simple past tense)
    • Example: "They are offering a discount on all shoes." (Present continuous tense – suggesting something is happening now)
    • Example: "He's constantly offering advice." (Present progressive – habitual action)

2. As a Noun (the act of presenting something)

  • Meaning: The act of making something available or proposed.
    • Example: "He made an offer of assistance."
    • Example: "She received a job offer."
    • Example: "The company made a generous offer to settle the lawsuit."

3. Specific Phrases Using "Offer"

Here are some common phrases and how they're used:

  • To make an offer: To propose something formally. “He made an offer of marriage.”
  • To accept an offer: To agree to something proposed. “She accepted his offer.”
  • To decline an offer: To refuse something proposed. “I declined his offer.”
  • To have an offer: To be presented with a proposal. “I have an offer for a new job.”
  • Offer up: (Informal) To volunteer or suggest something. “I’ll offer up to help you with that.” "He offered up the solution, and it was brilliant!"
  • Offer something up to someone: To propose something (often a suggestion or idea). “I’ll offer you this idea.”
  • Offer condolences: To express sympathy. “I offered my condolences to her after her loss.”
  • Offer support: To provide assistance. "She offered her support during a difficult time.”

4. Grammar Notes

  • “To offer” vs. “Offering”: “To offer” is the infinitive form (the ‘to’ form). "Offering" is the present participle (used with helping verbs like ‘is’, ‘are’, ‘was’, ‘were’).
  • “Offer” can be followed by a gerund (-ing form) or a noun. This is important for correct verb tense. Example: "He offered to help." (gerund) “He made an offer.” (noun)

Let's test your understanding. Can you create a sentence using "offer" in at least two different ways? (I'll provide feedback once you do!)

Synonyms for the word offer

Idioms of the word offer

have something to offer
to have something available that somebody wants
  • Oxford has a lot to offer visitors in the way of entertainment.
  • a young man with a great deal to offer (= who is intelligent, has many skills, etc.)
offer your hand
(formal)to hold out your hand for somebody to shake

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