What could cause an offer to terminate due to a lapse of time?

An offer can terminate due to a lapse of time when the offeree fails to respond within a reasonable period. This principle is grounded in contract law, which requires that offers remain open for a specific time, or, if no time is specified, for a reasonable period. If the offeree does not accept the offer within that timeframe, the offer is considered void.

In legal contexts, what is deemed a "reasonable period" can vary based on the nature of the offer and the surrounding circumstances, but the core concept remains that time plays a crucial role in the validity of the offer. Once the time has passed without acceptance, the offer is no longer legally enforceable, as the intention of the offeror must be respected within a timeframe that is considered practical for decision-making.