CONFER Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

confer

verb

kən-ˈfər

as in to grant

to give the ownership or benefit of (something) formally or publicly the British monarch continues to confer knighthood on those who are outstanding in their fields of endeavor

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to consult

to exchange viewpoints or seek advice for the purpose of finding a solution to a problem my parents are going to confer with a financial adviser about saving for their retirement

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How does the verb confer contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of confer are afford, bestow, donate, give, and present. While all these words mean "to convey to another as a possession," confer implies a gracious giving (as of a favor or honor).

confer an honorary degree

In what contexts can afford take the place of confer?

While the synonyms afford and confer are close in meaning, afford implies a giving or bestowing usually as a natural or legitimate consequence of the character of the giver.

the trees afford shade

a development that affords us some hope

When can bestow be used instead of confer?

The meanings of bestow and confer largely overlap; however, bestow implies the conveying of something as a gift and may suggest condescension on the part of the giver.

bestow unwanted advice

When might donate be a better fit than confer?

In some situations, the words donate and confer are roughly equivalent. However, donate is likely to imply a publicized giving (as to charity).

donate a piano to the orphanage

When could give be used to replace confer?

The words give and confer can be used in similar contexts, but give, the general term, is applicable to any passing over of anything by any means.

give alms

gave her a ride on a pony

give my love to your mother

When is it sensible to use present instead of confer?

While in some cases nearly identical to confer, present carries a note of formality and ceremony.

present an award

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of confer Citizenship, and the rights conferred upon citizens, should not depend on a person's ability to assemble records from behind detention walls, nor should liberty hinge on how much documentation a citizen can marshal under duress. —

Mike Hellgren, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026 Political office does not confer criminal immunity. —

Duncan S. Demarsh, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Jan. 2026 Sitting with Cucinelli is like conferring with a living history book. —

Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 8 Jan. 2026 Both sides agreed to confer on appropriate questions ahead of jury selection. —

Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for confer

Recent Examples of Synonyms for confer

Verb

Jacob LaGrone, 31, who faced life in prison, was granted deferred adjudication and placed on probation for seven years.

— Sarah Bahari, Dallas Morning News, 9 Jan. 2026
In October 2022, Delvey was granted a $10,000 bail bond and released from jail, but was required to remain in 24-hour home confinement with electronic monitoring and no access to social media until 2024, when she was allowed to move into the home of her friend Kelly Cutrone.

— Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026