French Conversation · Level 17
90 words
French word
offrir
Pronunciation
IPA/ofʁiʁ/
Meaning
- verbgive
Example
Elle a offert un livre à son ami.
She gave a book to her friend.
More examples
Il m'a offert un verre hier soir.
He treated me to a drink last night.
Core concept
A resource moves from one person's control into another person's reach, whether it is given freely or made available.
Common phrases
offrir un verre
treat someone to a drink
offrir une boisson
treat someone to a beverage
Similar words
donner: To give an object directly to another person.
inviter: To host someone for a meal or drink at one's own expense.
proposer: To present an idea or plan as an option for consideration.
prêter: To let someone use a possession temporarily before it is returned.
Definition in French
Mettre à la disposition de quelqu'un un objet, un service ou une proposition, souvent en signe de cadeau ou de faveur.
Word origin
Offrir is inherited through Old French from Latin offerre, meaning 'to bring before' or 'to present'.
Usage tips
- In Je t'offre un café, offrir often means paying for or treating someone to a coffee, not merely handing one over.