favored ally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "favored ally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person, group, or nation that is preferred or supported in a relationship, often in a political or strategic context. Example: "In the negotiations, the ambassador emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with our favored ally in the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Nor is it going to cease treating Israel as a uniquely favored ally.

Huffington Post

Who would have thought that the crisis would come from Hamas and our oldest and most favored ally, Israel?

The New York Times

Republicans see a chance to change that in 2012, with President Obama locked in a tense relationship with Israel's leaders and criticized by many American Jews as being too tough on a close and favored ally.

The New York Times

The wide scope of its activities and the pace with which Mr. Li has sought out Western partners in less than four years have established him as a favored ally for companies trying to crack China's vast market.

The New York Times

The White House considers Mr. Musharraf a favored ally in the American fight against militants aligned with Al Qaeda and the Taliban who have regrouped in Pakistan, but Mr. Musharraf is deeply unpopular here.

The New York Times

And since Israel is America's most favored ally in the Middle East, and the Palestinian cause has become the universal litmus test of liberal credentials, the idea that Jewish interests are driving American foreign policy is even more widely believed, if not always openly stated.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Across the flooded areas, victims accused local officials, especially those from the ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party, of favoring allies when handing out the meager aid.

The New York Times

Mr. Astorino makes no apologies for favoring allies from every phase of his life, going back to his childhood; his years at Fordham University, when he won a seat on the Mount Pleasant school board; and up through his first jobs in sports radio, when he was elected a town councilman in his mid-20s.

The New York Times

Republicans like Representative Darrell Issa of California said that in granting waivers, the administration had favored political allies, including labor unions.

The New York Times - Health

States — including North Korea — might sell bombs or give them to favored proxy allies, the way Iran gave Hezbollah medium-range rockets that Hezbollah used this summer during its war with Israel.

The New York Times - Magazine

D-Day, 1944, was a success, but the ratio and disposition of troops favored the Allies more in 1943 than 1944; it was probably a mistake to commit armies to North Africa in 1942, and then inevitably to Italy, where the topography overwhelmingly favored the defenders.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing international relations or political alliances, consider the connotations of "favored ally". Ensure that it accurately reflects the nature of the relationship and avoids unintended implications of bias or preferential treatment.

Common error

Avoid using "favored ally" when a more neutral term like "strategic partner" or "close associate" would be more appropriate. Overusing "favored ally" can create an impression of undue bias or partiality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "favored ally" functions as a compound adjective modifying a noun. It describes a particular kind of ally, one that receives preferential treatment or support. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "favored ally" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes an ally receiving preferential treatment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely employed in news, media, and formal business contexts. When using the term, consider the implications of bias and whether a more neutral term like "strategic partner" might be more suitable. Alternatives such as "preferred partner" or "close associate" can offer nuanced ways to express the relationship. Remember, precise word choice ensures clarity and avoids unintended connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Preferred partner

Focuses on the aspect of being chosen over others for a specific purpose or collaboration.

Trusted confidant

Highlights the element of reliance and discretion in the relationship.

Privileged associate

Emphasizes the special advantages and access granted within the association.

Strategic partner

Stresses the alignment of goals and mutual benefit in a cooperative endeavor.

Close associate

Indicates a strong connection and frequent interaction.

Special friend

Highlights the emotional connection and supportive nature of the relationship.

Inner circle

Refers to a select group with access to privileged information and influence.

Valued collaborator

Emphasizes the importance of the individual's contributions to a shared project or goal.

Chosen one

Highlights a selection among a group to fulfil a goal.

Blue-eyed boy

Implies that someone is treated with obvious favouritism.

FAQs

How can I use "favored ally" in a sentence?

You can use "favored ally" to describe a country or entity that receives preferential treatment or support from another. For example, "The United States has long considered Israel a "favored ally" in the Middle East".

What are some alternatives to "favored ally"?

Some alternatives to "favored ally" include "preferred partner", "strategic ally", or "close associate" depending on the context.

Is "favored ally" a formal or informal term?

"Favored ally" is generally considered a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, it's important to consider the implications of using such a term, as it can imply bias or preferential treatment.

What's the difference between "favored ally" and "strategic partner"?

While both terms describe a close relationship between entities, "favored ally" implies a sense of preferential treatment or support, while "strategic partner" suggests a more mutually beneficial alignment of goals and interests.