Bequeath and give are two very common verbs that are used frequently in the English language. Both of these words mean to give or transfer property, rights, or obligations from one person to another.
However, there are subtle differences between these two verbs that often lead to confusion and errors in written communication. In this article, we will examine the difference between “bequeath” and “give” and how to use them correctly in your writing.
Summary Table
| Bequeath | Give |
| To transfer the ownership of something to another person after you die | To give something, whether it’s objects, authorities, or feelings, to someone else |
| A legal action | Doesn’t necessarily have to involve the law |
Definitions
A bequeath is an act of transferring an object, property, or obligation from one person to another. The law defines a bequeath as an act that results in the transfer of property, or a portion of the estate, from one person to another, for purposes of distribution at death. Bequeaths can include transfers of money and real estate.
To give means to transfer or transmit, usually without charge. Giving is not necessarily synonymous with giving away, or giving up. Giving does not necessarily imply a free act of charity, as in giving alms to the poor.
By giving something away, we transfer the possession of it to another person. Giving can be the act of giving a book to a friend or an item of clothing to a loved one.
It can also mean transferring control of something that we have been in charge of, as in giving a project over to another person.
Difference Between Bequeath and Give
The difference between bequeathing and giving is quite obvious when you look at their definitions. Both verbs mean to transfer an object, property, or obligation from one person to another.
However, there are subtle differences between these two verbs that often lead to confusion and errors in written communication. The most important difference is that the verb bequeath is used to refer to an inheritance or similar assets while giving can refer to many things, even intangible things like feelings.
The difference between bequeathing and giving is quite obvious when you look at their definitions. Both verbs mean to transfer an object, property, or obligation from one person to another.
However, there are subtle differences between these two verbs that often lead to confusion and errors in written communication. The most important difference is that the verb bequeath is used to refer to an inheritance or similar assets while giving can refer to many things, even intangible things like feelings.
Giving is not necessarily intended as payment for work or service rendered; rather it may be part of the relationship between two people and the arrangement between them. It is often associated with charity and voluntary efforts to help others less fortunate than ourselves.
