Question

Offer under Section 2(a) is _________:

• A. Communication from one person to another;
• B. Suggestion by one person to another;
• C. Willingness to do or abstain from doing an act in order to obtain the assent of other thereto;
• D. None of the above;

Hint:

An offer must show clear intent to create legal relations, not just a casual expression of willingness.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Definition as per Section 2(a):
Section 2(a) of the Indian Contract Act defines “proposal” or “offer” as: “When one person signifies to another his willingness to do or abstain from doing anything with a view to obtaining the assent of that other to such act or abstinence, he is said to make a proposal.”
Step 2: Explanation:
An offer signifies the willingness of one person to create legal obligations upon acceptance. It must be made with the intention to obtain consent from the other party and to form a contractual relationship, not merely to express a desire.
Step 3: Example:
If A says to B, “I am willing to sell my house for ₹10 lakh,” this is an offer, as A expresses willingness to do something with the intention of receiving B’s assent.
Step 4: Final Conclusion:
Therefore, the correct answer is (C) Willingness to do or abstain from doing an act in order to obtain the assent of other thereto, as it matches the legal definition under Section 2(a).