tender - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tender Word Meanings
- soft or delicate in texture
- to offer formally
- showing gentleness or kindness
tender Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tender Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtɛndər/
US
/ˈtɛndər/
tender Word Etymology
tender = tend + -er. Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a gentle hand offering a flower, symbolizing tenderness.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I start by holding a soft cloth and letting my fingers move over its tender surface. I shift a cup to a saucer, adjust the steam, and feel how the fabric stays gentle as if it wants to be cared for. When I tender a proposal in a calm voice, I set my gesture steady, keeping the pace slow and respectful. My decision to soften my tone, to push a little warmth into the room, makes the moment feel light and kind, like the idea itself taking shape.
Real Context
tender is a versatile English word with three main senses. As an adjective, it describes something soft, delicate, or easily damaged, such as tender meat, tender fruit, or tender fabric. As a verb, to tender means to offer formally or present something for consideration, for example tendering a resignation, tendering a bid, or tendering a gift. It can also describe a person or action that shows gentleness, care, or kindness, as in a tender look or a tender disposal of a wounded animal. Learners should note that tender appears in legal and business phrases and may require formal language, and the pronunciation centers on the first syllable TEN-der. In many contexts, the nuance blends softness and formality, so learners should pick the right collocations.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Tender as adjective means soft or delicate texture. 2. Tender as a verb means to offer formally or submit for consideration. 3. Tender can describe gentleness or caring in people or actions. 4. Common collocations include tender offer, tender resignation, tender care. 5. Pronunciation centers on the first syllable: TEN-der; formal contexts require precise vocabulary.
Common Misconceptions
- Tender does not always mean gentle; it can describe texture, not mood.
- Don't treat tender as a synonym for soft in all contexts; 'soft' and 'tender' have nuanced uses.
- Tender (verb) is not about begging; it is formal submission.
- Do not confuse 'tender' with 'tendered' or 'tendering' in tense shifts.
- Some compound phrases use formal language (tender offer) that learners must recognize.
Thinking Differences
English often bundles texture, formality, and emotion into tender, with clear noun/verb distinctions and common formal phrases; learners may over- or under-apply one sense across contexts.
Learning Tips
- Build a small glossary of tender-related terms (texture, offer, resignation).
- Practice with sentences in different registers (informal vs formal).
- Note collocations like tender offer and tender resignation.
- Listen for stress on TEN-der in phrases.
- Compare with synonyms like soft, gentle, polite to see nuance.
- Use authentic legal/business examples to cement usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'tender' used correctly?
A.The tender truck collided with the wall.
B.He turned up the tender volume.
C.She tendered her resignation.
D.The tender elephant ran across the field.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'tender'?
A.Happy
B.Gentle
C.Brave
D.Harsh
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would the word 'tender' be used?
A.Referring to a big building
B.Explaining a loud noise
C.Talking about a fast runner
D.Describing a gentle touch
Step 5: Mastery
Can you use the word 'tender' in a sentence describing a soft feeling?
A.We enjoyed a tender movie.
B.The tender car honked loudly.
C.The tender rock fell from the sky.
D.I felt the tender breeze on my skin.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App