bestow an honor

Meaning

To present a prestigious award, title, or distinction to someone. This expression is highly formal and is typically used during graduation ceremonies, official galas, or state events. It carries a sense of deep respect and significance.

Examples

• The university decided to bestow an honor upon the retired professor for her lifetime of research.

  The university decided to bestow an honor upon the retired professor for her lifetime of research.

• It is a privilege to bestow this honor on someone who has dedicated his life to public service.

  It is a privilege to bestow this honor on someone who has dedicated his life to public service.

• They will bestow an honor upon the local hero at the annual town hall meeting tonight.

  They will bestow an honor upon the local hero at the annual town hall meeting tonight.

• The queen plans to bestow an honor on the scientists who developed the vaccine.

  The queen plans to bestow an honor on the scientists who developed the vaccine.

• To bestow such an honor on a young artist is rare, but her talent is undeniable.

  To bestow such an honor on a young artist is rare, but her talent is undeniable.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The committee decided to bestow an honor to the writer.

  ✓ The committee decided to bestow an honor on the writer.

  The verb 'bestow' collocates with the prepositions 'on' or 'upon', not 'to'.

• ✗ They want to bestow an honor for her achievements.

  ✓ They want to bestow an honor on her for her achievements.

  You bestow an honor 'on' or 'upon' a person. You do not bestow an honor 'for' someone, though you can bestow it 'for' a reason after naming the recipient.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The committee chose to ___ upon the young activist for her environmental work.

  💡 To present a formal award or title to someone.

  Show answer

  bestow an honor

• It is my privilege to ___ on our keynote speaker tonight.

  💡 A formal phrase meaning to give a special recognition.

  Show answer

  bestow an honor