# confer

/kənˈfɝ/ (US) · /kənfˈɜː/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/confer
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

to talk with other people to exchange ideas or make a decision. It can also mean to give someone a special honor, right, or power.

For teachers: to consult or discuss something with others in order to reach a decision; alternatively, to grant or bestow a title, degree, or benefit. Often used in formal or academic contexts.

## Examples

- The judges need to confer before they announce the winner.
- The university will confer an honorary doctorate upon the scientist for her lifelong dedication to research.
- After the board members confer with their legal advisors, they will determine whether the proposed merger complies with current antitrust regulations.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The committee conferred the prize to him" but "The committee conferred the prize on him" — When used to mean 'bestow', the verb takes the preposition 'on' or 'upon' rather than 'to'.

## Usage notes

- When meaning 'to discuss', it is intransitive and usually takes the preposition 'with'. When meaning 'to give', it is transitive and often takes the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.