confer
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kənˈfɜːr/
KK: /kənˈfɜr/
intransitive verb
Definition
To meet and discuss something with others, often to make a decision or share ideas.
Example
The committee will confer about the new policy next week.
Tense Forms
Past: conferred
Past Participle: conferred
Conversation
Did you hear they confer every month to discuss new ideas?
Yeah, I think that's a great way to keep everyone on the same page.
I wish I could confer with them about my project.
You should totally reach out and see if you can join their next meeting!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
consult
discuss
negotiate
Antonyms
ignore
dismiss
overlook
transitive verb
Definition
To give or grant something, such as an honor or a title, to someone.
Example
The university will confer degrees to the graduates at the ceremony.
Tense Forms
Past: conferred
Past Participle: conferred
Conversation
Did you hear about the awards ceremony last night?
Yeah, they conferred several honors to outstanding students.
That's great! I love when they recognize hard work like that.
Root Explanation
Confer → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "ferre" (meaning to bear or carry). The word "confer" means to bring together or to discuss something in order to share ideas or information.
Memory Tip
Think of bringing ideas 'together' ('con-') to 'carry' them forward ('ferre') — that's why confer means to discuss or share.
Visually Confused Words
conifer
coinfer
coner
reconfer
corner
conter
conner
conker