bestow confidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bestow confidence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of giving or imparting confidence to someone, often in a supportive or encouraging context. Example: "The coach's words were meant to bestow confidence in the young athletes before the big game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

He urged a public that has yet to bestow much confidence in the security forces to cooperate with them in an effort to stanch coming attacks.

The New York Times

But popularity does not bestow authority.

The New York Times

Eleven years ago, England arrived bearing a confidence bestowed by seven consecutive Test victories.

Independent

These groups have championed the importance of their causes, united global efforts under a single banner, funneled money towards recommended solutions and reported back on the results, thus giving donors the confidence to bestow further funds.

Huffington Post

The judges bestowed their vote of confidence in Mr. Terfel in the form of a lieder prize, new that year, for outstanding achievement in the art song.

The New York Times - Arts

Where is the stat for the confidence manager Bruce Bochy bestows on his players and for the trust his players show in each other?

The Guardian - Sport

The authority we bestow on doctors?

Huffington Post

The courage and confidence that Students Rising Above bestowed upon me has helped me to become a solid member in the workforce.

Huffington Post

Historically, individuals possessed of the confidence that privilege and good fortune bestow have often proved conspicuous reformers: think only of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The Guardian - Opinion

Conversely, from the currently available data, it can be stated with some confidence that neoadjuvant chemotherapy does not bestow a survival disadvantage.

British Journal of Cancer

It is recognition that even more important than the material benefits a development project might bestow, are the less tangible changes in capacity and confidence that make a community more resilient in the face of difficult circumstances, and more able to demand and defend its rights.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "bestow confidence" with specific actions or qualities to provide a clearer understanding of how confidence is being transferred (e.g., "bestow confidence through mentorship").

Common error

Avoid using "bestow confidence" when the context implies earning or gaining confidence. Bestowing suggests a deliberate act of giving, not a self-acquired trait.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bestow confidence" functions as a verb-noun construction. The verb "bestow" indicates the act of giving or conferring something, while the noun "confidence" represents the quality being transferred. Although Ludwig provides examples with similar contexts it is important to acknowledge this phrase requires careful use to ensure clarity and avoid misinterpretations.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bestow confidence" describes the act of granting or imparting confidence to someone. Ludwig's analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct but not particularly common, with limited examples available. Its primary function is to encourage and empower others, and it maintains a neutral register suitable for a variety of contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the direction of action is clear, emphasizing the deliberate act of giving confidence rather than its acquisition. Consider alternatives like "impart self-assurance" or "foster self-belief" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Despite the limited number of examples, Ludwig confirms the phrase is usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impart self-assurance

Emphasizes the act of giving someone a sense of belief in their abilities.

foster self-belief

Focuses on nurturing and developing belief in oneself over time.

grant assurance

Focuses on providing a guarantee or certainty, rather than directly instilling confidence.

instill conviction

Stresses the creation of a firm belief or opinion on a certain matter.

infuse with courage

Highlights inspiring bravery rather than directly affecting their confidence.

give reassurance

Provides comfort and removes doubt, differing from directly instilling confidence.

lend encouragement

Offers support and hope, but may not necessarily build confidence.

build trust

Focuses on establishing reliability, which can indirectly influence confidence.

inspire faith

Centers on prompting a strong belief in someone or something, rather than directly impacting their confidence.

bolster morale

Enhances team spirit and optimism but not necessarily individual confidence.

FAQs

How can I use "bestow confidence" in a sentence?

You can use "bestow confidence" to describe giving someone a sense of self-assurance or belief in their abilities. For example, "The mentor's praise helped to "bestow confidence" in the student".

What are some alternatives to "bestow confidence"?

Alternatives include "impart self-assurance", "instill conviction", or "foster self-belief" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "bestow confidence" a formal or informal expression?

"Bestow confidence" leans towards formal usage, often found in professional or academic contexts. More informal alternatives might include "give someone a boost" or "make someone feel good about themselves".

What is the difference between "bestow confidence" and "gain confidence"?

"Bestow confidence" implies an action from one entity to another, granting self-assurance. In contrast, "gain confidence" suggests acquiring self-assurance through personal experience or achievement.