What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
give
Example
Can you give me a hand with this box? [give: verb]
Example
I gave her my phone number in case she needed help. [gave: past tense]
Example
He gave generously to the charity fundraiser. [give: verb]
offer
Example
I offered to help her with her homework. [offer: verb]
Example
The company offered a discount to new customers. [offered: past tense]
Example
He offered some advice on how to improve the project. [offer: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Give is more commonly used in everyday language, while offer is more commonly used in professional or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between give and offer?
Offer can be more formal and polite than give, especially when making a proposal or suggestion. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and tone of the conversation.