Definition

A response to an initial offer, where the person making the counteroffer proposes different terms instead of accepting the original offer.

Example

After reviewing the job offer, she decided to make a counteroffer with a higher salary.

Conversation

Did you hear back about the job offer?

Yeah, they made an offer, but I think I might send a counteroffer.

That sounds like a good idea; what do you want to change?

I want to ask for a higher salary in my counteroffer.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Counteroffer → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against or in response) and "offer" (from Old English "offrian", meaning to present or propose). The word "counteroffer" means a proposal made in response to a previous offer, essentially presenting an alternative.

Memory Tip

Think of making a proposal "against" or in response to another offer — that's why a counteroffer is a new proposal in response to the first.

Visually Confused Words