説明中心

befriend

[bɪˈfrend]

befriend Definition

act as a friend to someone by offering help or support.

Using befriend: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "befriend" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She was befriended by a kind-hearted woman who gave her food and shelter.

  • Example

    He decided to befriend the new student and show him around the school.

  • Example

    The organization aims to befriend and support elderly people who live alone.

befriend Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for befriend

  • make friends with
  • cultivate a friendship with
  • take under one's wing

Antonyms for befriend

Phrases with befriend

  • to add someone as a friend on a social media platform

    Example

    I decided to befriend her on Facebook after meeting her at the party.

  • to offer help or support to someone who is in a difficult situation

    Example

    The charity aims to befriend people in need and provide them with practical assistance.

  • to become close friends with someone and maintain the friendship for a long time

    Example

    We met at university and have been best friends ever since - we're befriended for life.

Origins of befriend

from be- +‎ friend, equivalent to 'make a friend of'

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Summary: befriend in Brief

'Befriend' [bɪˈfrend] means to act as a friend to someone by offering help or support. It can be used in various contexts, such as making friends with a new student or befriending someone in need. The verb is often used in combination with prepositions, such as 'befriend someone on social media,' or in phrases like 'befriend someone for life.'

How do native speakers use this expression?