What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bids
Example
The company submitted several bids for the construction project. [bids: noun]
Example
She bid on the antique vase at the auction. [bid: verb]
tenders
Example
The government issued a tender for the construction of a new bridge. [tender: noun]
Example
They tendered their bid for the software development project. [tendered: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bids is more commonly used than tenders in everyday language, especially in the context of auctions and competitive bidding. Tenders is more specific to business contracts and procurement processes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bids and tenders?
While bids can be used in both formal and informal contexts, tenders is generally more formal and is commonly used in professional settings.
