Tender Meaning in English
word
Definition
Tender can describe something soft and easy to cut or touch, especially food like meat. It can also describe a gentle, loving feeling or manner, and in formal business English it can mean an official offer to do work or supply goods at a stated price.
Usage & Nuances
Most common everyday uses are for food ('tender meat') and emotions ('a tender smile', 'tender care'). The business noun is more formal: 'submit a tender' is common in procurement. Don't confuse it with 'soft': 'tender' often suggests gentle quality or emotional warmth, not just physical softness.
Example Sentences
This chicken is very tender.
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She gave the baby a tender kiss.
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The company will tender for the new bridge project.
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He looked at her with a tender smile.
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After six hours in the oven, the beef was fall-apart tender.
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We submitted our tender last week, so now we're just waiting for a response.
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