favour

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'favour' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it as both a noun, such as in the phrase "She did him a great favour" or as a verb, such as in the phrase "He favoured her with an offer of help".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In reality, the effect on MPs' seats is more complex to measure as voters are not spread evenly across constituencies: some areas within may heavily favour one party, others its main rival.

The Guardian

The rhetorical devices his speechwriters love to use have been rejected by him in favour of sticking with this, his original wording.

The Guardian - Opinion

The answer is not for "formal" education to begin earlier, but the evidence in favour of state funding for play-based, nursery settings from the age of two – followed by a gentle transition into school life – is clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ms Tuchman argued that a folly's success was marked by the determination of its supporters to pursue a foolish and failed policy in the face of clear arguments in favour of an alternative course.

The Guardian - Opinion

The facts of the actual strike are jettisoned in favour of a ticking-clock climax whereby Scargill/Pacino must race to parliament on a motorbike and make a tear-jerking speech before the miners blow up Sellafield.

The Guardian - Film

Tory supporters of equal marriage are making an eleventh hour plea to fellow Conservative MPs to vote in favour of reform by invoking the record of Margaret Thatcher, who supported the legalisation of homosexuality in the 1960s.

The Guardian

It has become the continent's productive powerhouse by rigging all economic relationships in its favour.

The Guardian - Opinion

CleanStar has steered clear of monoculture crops in favour of sustainable farming methods.

The Guardian

However, postal votes are expected to favour Mirabella.

The Guardian

"But even among the woman who do have abortions, many are not in favour.

The Guardian

However, he was more fervently in favour of Vatican reforms than his superiors, and was encouraged to find another calling.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "favour" as a verb, be mindful of the context. It can mean to prefer one thing over another or to treat someone with partiality.

Common error

A common mistake is using "favour" when "favorite" is more appropriate. "Favour" is an action or a kindness, while "favorite" refers to something liked best. For example, say "That is my favorite song", not "That is my favour song".

Linguistic Context

The word "favour" functions as both a noun, denoting a kind act or special regard, and a verb, meaning to prefer or support. Ludwig AI validates these usages through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "favour" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, primarily used in British English. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. Its core meanings relate to showing preference, offering assistance, or performing a kind act. It is frequently found in contexts such as news reporting, business communication, and scientific writing. While the spelling differs in American English (favor), the underlying meaning remains consistent. Recognizing common errors, such as confusing "favour" with "favorite", and considering suitable alternatives like "kindness" or "preference", can improve clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do a kindness

Focuses on the act of performing a benevolent deed.

do a service

Emphasizes the act of performing a helpful or beneficial task.

oblige someone

Indicates the act of doing something as a service or kindness.

lend assistance

Focuses on providing help or support.

grant a privilege

Highlights the act of bestowing a special advantage.

give preferential treatment

Stresses the act of treating someone or something better than others.

give an advantage

Stresses the act of providing a beneficial condition or opportunity.

bestow a benefit

Highlights the act of conferring a positive outcome or gain.

show preference

Emphasizes the act of indicating partiality towards something or someone.

accede to a request

Focuses on granting a specific request or demand.

FAQs

How can I use "favour" in a sentence?

You can use "favour" as a noun, like in "Could you do me a "favour"?", or as a verb meaning to prefer, such as in "I "favour" tea over coffee".

What's a good substitute for "favour"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "kindness", "assistance", or "preference".

Is it "favour" or "favor"?

"Favour" is the British spelling, while "favor" is the American spelling. Choose the spelling that corresponds with your audience and writing style.

How does "favour" differ from "favoritism"?

"Favour" generally refers to a kind act or preference, while "favoritism" implies unfair preferential treatment, often in a professional or competitive setting.