on offer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on offer" is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to describe something that is available, particularly when there is a limited amount. For example, "This weekend only, we have 50% off all products on offer!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There are much larger ones on offer.

The Economist

Currently on offer.

Independent

This is what's on offer".

Independent

These aren't on offer.

The Guardian

So what's on offer?

The Guardian - Books

Beans are 50p at Morrisons – on offer.

Independent

Several surveillance robots are also on offer.

The Economist

One night Drummerman had snapper on offer.

The New York Times - Magazine

Tax incentives are also on offer.

The New York Times

Additional loans are also on offer.

Independent

No prizes are on offer.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on offer" to indicate availability, especially when promoting products or services at a special price or with unique terms. For example: "This weekend, all summer dresses are "on offer" at 30% off."

Common error

Avoid using "on offer" when simply stating that something exists without any intention of promotion or special availability. Saying "There is food "on offer"" implies a choice or promotion, not just the presence of food.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on offer" primarily functions as a post-positive modifier in sentences. It typically follows a noun to indicate that the noun is available or being presented, often suggesting a specific opportunity or promotion, as validated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

26%

Science

26%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on offer" is a versatile and frequently used prepositional phrase indicating availability, often with an implied sense of promotion or special terms. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a post-positive modifier, informing and attracting attention to opportunities across diverse contexts. Its usage is prevalent in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science, and it maintains a neutral register suitable for broad communication. While synonymous with alternatives like "available" or "for sale", "on offer" adds a nuanced layer of enticement, making it a valuable tool for effective communication. Be mindful to use it when there is a real intention of availability and do not mistake with the simple existence of something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

available

Direct synonym indicating something is accessible or ready for use.

for sale

Specifically denotes that something is being sold, often at a standard price.

on sale

Indicates that something is being sold at a reduced price for a limited time.

being offered

Formal alternative that emphasizes the act of offering something.

up for grabs

Informal expression suggesting something is available and likely to be taken quickly.

in stock

Specifically indicates that an item is currently available in a store or warehouse.

at hand

Implies something is readily available or accessible.

presented

Emphasizes the act of showing or displaying something, often formally.

showcased

Highlights the act of displaying something in an attractive or prominent way.

obtainable

Focuses on the possibility of acquiring or getting something.

FAQs

How can I use "on offer" in a sentence?

You can use "on offer" to indicate that something is available, often at a reduced price or with special conditions. For example, "The new menu has several vegetarian options "on offer"" or "These apartments are "on offer" with a special discount for first-time buyers".

What can I say instead of "on offer"?

You can use alternatives like "available", "for sale", or "being offered" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'on offer' or 'on sale'?

Both "on offer" and "on sale" are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "On sale" specifically implies a reduced price, while "on offer" simply means something is available, possibly with special terms but not necessarily a discount.

What's the difference between "on offer" and "available"?

"Available" is a general term for accessibility, while "on offer" often suggests a specific promotion, opportunity, or selection. If you say, "Tickets are "available"", it means they can be purchased. If you say, "Tickets are "on offer"", it may mean they're at a special price or as part of a package deal.