What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vouchsafe
Example
The queen vouchsafed an audience with the ambassador. [vouchsafed: past tense verb]
Example
He vouchsafed us a small smile before turning away. [vouchsafed: past participle verb]
bestow
Example
The university bestowed an honorary degree upon the distinguished professor. [bestowed: past tense verb]
Example
She bestowed her blessings upon the newlyweds. [bestowed: past participle verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bestow is more commonly used than vouchsafe in everyday language. Bestow is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while vouchsafe is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vouchsafe and bestow?
Vouchsafe is typically more formal than bestow. While bestow can be used in both formal and informal contexts, vouchsafe is generally reserved for more formal or literary situations.
