1 B1 neutral
To present something, such as an idea, explanation, or suggestion, for consideration.
"The scientist offered up a new theory to explain the unusual data."
separable
offer up
B1 neutral separable transitive
To present, suggest, or give something, often willingly or as a sacrifice or contribution.
In plain English
To give or suggest something for others to consider or accept.
What does "offer up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic formal
To give or sacrifice something, often in a religious or ceremonial context.
"The priest offered up a prayer for the victims of the disaster."
“
"We offer up our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honour."
— Paraphrase of the Declaration of Independence (1776); this phrasing echoes the original pledge by the Founding Fathers
separable
3 B1 neutral
To willingly provide something when asked or as a contribution.
"Nobody offered up any volunteers when the manager asked for help with the weekend shift."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To hold something up as an offering — from the practice of offering items upward to a deity.
Actually means
To give or suggest something for others to consider or accept.
Usage tip
Has both religious connotations (offering a sacrifice) and general everyday use (offering a suggestion). The religious sense is the older meaning. Common in formal speeches and writing.
Words that pair with "offer up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
prayer sacrifice explanation solution apology idea opinion
How to conjugate "offer up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
offer up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
offers up
he/she/it
Past simple
offered up
yesterday
Past participle
offered up
have + pp
-ing form
offering up
continuous
Hear "offer up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "offer up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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