B1verb1K

Deliver

UK /["/dɪˈlɪvə(r)/","/dɪˈlɪvəz/","/dɪˈlɪvəd/","/dɪˈlɪvərɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪˈlɪvər/","/dɪˈlɪvərz/","/dɪˈlɪvərd/","/dɪˈlɪvərɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to take goods, letters, etc. to the person or people they have been sent to

In simple words: to bring something to someone

Examples

  • The courier will deliver the package by noon.
  • Can you deliver the final presentation next week?
  • The restaurant promises to deliver fresh food to your door.
  • She was able to deliver her speech without any notes.
  • They plan to deliver the new project by the end of the month.
  • The athlete managed to deliver an impressive performance at the event.
  • You need to deliver your thoughts clearly during the discussion.

Usage notes

Used when giving items, messages, or services. Appropriate in most contexts, but avoid in very casual speech. In formal writing, specify what is being delivered.

Grammar pattern

deliver + object

Memory hint

Imagine a delivery man bringing a package to your door.

Collocations

  • free of charge
  • by hand
  • personally
  • to
  • by
  • via
  • have something delivered
  • consistently
  • effectively
  • efficiently
  • on
  • safely
  • by Caesarean
  • by Caesarean section
  • safely
  • by Caesarean
  • by Caesarean section

Synonyms

  • save

Antonyms

  • receive
  • withhold
  • retain

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'devour' — both start with 'd,' but have different meanings.
  • Using 'delivered' intransitively — 'deliver' needs an object.
  • Saying 'delivering to' without specifying the recipient.