Gifts vs. Presents

Posted by Indian Giver on December 01, 2003

In Reply to: Gifts vs. Presents posted by Ward Fredericks on December 01, 2003

: In a discussion with a great Aussie blond (who will be nameless here) the topic of gifts vs presents came up. With some little reflection I told her that in my part of the western US there is some little difference, and that I personally use gift when I am talking about something given to an acquaintance or a business associate -- i.e a gift is given without necessarily a lot of affection. We give housewarming gifts to celebrate a new home of a friend or acquaintance.
: We give presents to our family and to those people where there is an affectionate relationship.

: Is there any rhyme or reason for the distinction elsewhere in the English speaking world?

I think a gift is something given; a gift of money, a gift of friendship, a fruit basket as a gift, but a present is a wrapped gift in wrapping paper and a bow, no matter what is inside as the gift.

• Gifts vs. Presents R. Berg 02/December/03
  • Gifts vs. Presents Barney 02/December/03
• Gifts vs. Presents -- PS: Indian Giver 01/December/03