favorite son

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "favorite son" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to a person, often a male, who is particularly favored or cherished, especially in a familial or community context. An example is: "In the eyes of the townspeople, he was their favorite son, always ready to help." Alternative expressions include "preferred child" and "beloved son."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Tom, Tom, the favorite son,.

The New Yorker

L.A.'s favorite son.

The New York Times

"He's like our favorite son".

The Guardian - Music

"He's the favorite son," he explains.

The New York Times - Magazine

So much for the favorite son.

The New Yorker

The favorite son comes back, his getaway over.

The New York Times - Books

Her favorite son, Darren, is the most ineffectual.

The New York Times

If American literature had a favorite son, it was Kesey.

The New Yorker

Here was their favorite son, happy as can be.

The New York Times - Sports

Outsiders seldom can overcome the "favorite son" factor.

The New York Times

Lewis, the favorite son of Sauk Centre, Minn.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase to describe someone who is particularly favored within a family or organization, emphasizing their special status.

Common error

While "favorite son" is acceptable in news and general contexts, avoid using it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "prominent figure" or "respected member" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "favorite son" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as an appositive or descriptor. It identifies an individual who holds a special position of esteem or affection within a group or community. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "favorite son" is a common noun phrase used to describe a man who is highly regarded and cherished by a particular group or community. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and most frequently appears in News & Media sources. While versatile, it's best to avoid using it in formal academic contexts, and consider alternatives like "favored child" or "local hero" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread use and generally neutral to informal register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

favored child

Focuses on the aspect of being preferred or favored, similar to a "favorite son" but applicable regardless of gender.

golden boy

Implies someone who is successful, admired, and has a bright future, similar to the positive connotations of "favorite son".

fair-haired boy

An idiom referring to someone who is treated with special favor or is particularly well-regarded.

local hero

Emphasizes the aspect of being admired within a community, reflecting the esteem associated with being a "favorite son".

blue-eyed boy

Similar to fair-haired boy, indicating someone who is particularly favored.

most beloved

Highlights the affection and love felt towards the person, similar to the sentiment behind "favorite son".

revered figure

Emphasizes the respect and high regard held for the individual, akin to the honor implied in being a "favorite son".

darling of

Indicates someone who is greatly admired and loved by a particular group or community.

poster child

Someone considered the best possible example of something. Is different from QUERY since it has a general use not only tied to a person.

man of the hour

Highlights someone who is currently receiving a lot of attention and praise, different from QUERY since it focuses on a timely popularity.

FAQs

How can I use "favorite son" in a sentence?

You can use "favorite son" to describe someone who is highly regarded or favored by a particular group or community. For example: "The town celebrated their "favorite son" after his Olympic victory."

What are some alternatives to "favorite son"?

Some alternatives include "favored child", "golden boy", or "local hero", depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

Is "favorite son" gender-neutral?

No, "favorite son" specifically refers to a male. If you need a gender-neutral term, consider using "favored child" or "most beloved".

When is it appropriate to use the term "favorite son"?

It's appropriate to use "favorite son" when you want to emphasize the special affection or high regard that a community or group has for a particular man. It's commonly used in news, sports, and general interest stories.