befriend - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
befriend Word Meanings
- to make friends with someone
- to become a friend to
- to help or support someone
befriend Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
befriend Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bɪˈfrɛnd/
US
/bɪˈfrɛnd/
befriend Word Etymology
Root decomposition: be- (formality) + friend (a person you share kindness with). Historical origin: Old English 'frēond' combined with 'be-' to denote the act of making friends. Memory image: Imagine two people on a playground deciding to share toys, instantly transforming strangers into friends.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Befriend is a transitive verb meaning to become friends with someone and thereby form a friendship. It emphasizes the active process of initiating a social connection rather than merely sharing a situation or being friendly in general. People often befriend new neighbors, classmates, colleagues, or online contacts when they discover shared interests or mutual support needs. The act may involve kindness, listening, and offering help, and it can occur in both casual and more formal contexts. The form is befriend (present), befriended (past), and befriending (present participle). It is slightly more formal or intentional than the everyday phrase make friends with. Typical collocations include befriend a new coworker or befriend someone in need.
Usage Reminders
- Be clear about the initiation; use befriend for intentional action
- Avoid wrong prepositions (not befriend with)
- Use appropriate tense (befriended/befriending)
- Pair with context of help or support when relevant
- Prefer 'befriend' in formal writing over casual 'make friends'
- Recognize that you befriend people, not things or ideas
Common Misconceptions
- It means simply existing as someone's friend rather than actively forming one
- It can be used with 'with' (befriend with) – incorrect; use befriend someone
- It only refers to children or adolescents; it applies to adults too
- It implies benefactor-only relationships; it can be mutual and reciprocal
- It cannot be used in progressive tenses
Thinking Differences
In English, befriending stresses active social initiation and pro-social intent; learners often default to passive phrases like 'get to know' or 'become friends' without emphasizing the initiating act. It can sound formal in writing or polite in conversation. Remember you befriend people, not things, and you don’t use 'befriend with'.
Learning Tips
- Practice befriend with different people in varied settings
- Notice it pairs with help or collaboration contexts
- Compare with make friends to sense nuance
- Use past tense befriended to describe completed actions
- Avoid befriend with; always befriend someone
- Listen for formal vs informal tone in context
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'befriend' mean?
A.To annoy someone
B.To become friends with someone
C.To compete with someone
D.To criticize someone
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'befriend' correctly?
A.He tried to befriend the enemy in the battle.
B.I decided to befriend the new student at school.
C.She wants to befriend the homework she dreads.
D.They will befriend the exam results this season.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'befriend'?
A.Dislike
B.Neglect
C.Acquaint
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'befriend'?
A.Support
B.Embrace
C.Alienate
D.Unite
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might want to befriend another person?
A.Joining a club to meet new people and form friendships.
B.Avoiding contact with anyone at the gathering.
C.Focusing only on work and ignoring social interactions.
D.Critiquing someone's behavior during the meeting.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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