The use of 授予 (shòuyǔ) reflects the importance of hierarchy, ceremony, and official recognition in Chinese culture. The act of 授予 is rarely between equals; it solidifies a power structure where an organization or person of high standing formally acknowledges the merit, status, or rights of a recipient. A useful Western comparison is the difference between “to give” and “to bestow” or “to confer.” While we might “give” a friend a gift, a monarch would “bestow” a knighthood upon a subject. 授予 functions like “bestow” but is far more common in modern written Chinese, appearing frequently in news reports, legal documents, and academic announcements. It underscores a cultural appreciation for formal processes and the public recognition of achievement and status. This isn't about a personal exchange; it's about an official, often public, transaction of honor or authority.
授予 (shòuyǔ) is used almost exclusively in formal written and spoken contexts. You will almost never hear it in casual, everyday conversation.
The most common mistake for learners is confusing 授予 (shòuyǔ) with the everyday word for “to give,” 给 (gěi).
Think of it this way: a university 授予s a diploma, but you 给 your friend a book.