What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
donating
Example
I donated some clothes to the local shelter. [donated: past tense]
Example
She is donating money to the cancer research foundation. [donating: present participle]
bestow
Example
The queen bestowed a knighthood upon him. [bestowed: past tense]
Example
He was bestowed with great intelligence and creativity. [bestowed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Donating is more commonly used than bestowing in everyday language. Donating is a common term used in the context of charity and non-profit organizations, while bestowing is more often used in formal or ceremonial contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between donating and bestow?
Bestowing is generally considered more formal and ceremonial than donating. While donating can be used in both formal and informal contexts, bestowing is typically reserved for more formal or ceremonial situations.