Bestow Meaning in English
word
bɪˈstoʊ
bih-STOH
bɪstˈəʊ
bist-OH
Definition
To formally give something, such as an honor, gift, or right, to someone. Most often used for things given as a mark of respect or recognition.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and literary; rarely used in everyday conversation. Common collocations: 'bestow an honor', 'bestow a gift', 'bestow upon someone'. Not used for casual giving—prefer 'give', 'grant', or 'offer' in informal contexts.
Spanish: otorgar - concederPortuguese (BR): conceder - conferirPortuguese (PT): conceder - conferirChinese (Simplified): 授予 - 赐予Chinese (Traditional): 賦予 - 贈與Hindi: प्रदान करना - सम्मानित करनाArabic: يمنح - يضفيBengali: দান করা - প্রদান করা (সম্মান/পুরস্কার ইত্যাদি)Russian: даровать - удостаиватьJapanese: 授ける - 与える（フォーマル）Vietnamese: ban tặng - trao tặngKorean: 수여하다 - 부여하다Turkish: bahşetmek - vermek (onur/ödül gibi)Urdu: عطا کرنا - بخشناIndonesian: menganugerahkan - memberikan (secara resmi/formal)
Example Sentences
The queen bestowed a medal on the soldier.
basic
He bestowed his trust upon his friend.
basic
The university will bestow an honorary degree at the ceremony.
basic
With this award, we bestow upon you our highest appreciation.
natural
Legends say the gods bestowed wisdom on humans long ago.
natural
She felt truly honored to be bestowed with such a rare title.
natural