gain favour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gain favour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of earning approval or support from someone, often in a social or professional context. Example: "He worked hard to gain favour with his boss by consistently delivering high-quality work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

In 2011 the customer banks will gain favour.

The Economist

In an apparent attempt to gain favour, the government released two prominent political prisoners last week.

The Guardian

Recently, however, single bean chocolate has begun to gain favour, particularly with small, boutique producers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In Falstaff's case the attempt to gain favour was an intentional ploy to further his interests.

Nature

Mr Clegg said Mr Alderman had tried to gain favour for the SFO in an article in a national newspaper.

Independent

It may also gain favour from people who mistake its fantastical element for something mysterious, or even sublime.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

"Or both?" During Conté's period in power mineral prospectors resorted increasingly to accessing the president through his four wives, bestowing lavish gifts and bribes to gain favours, according to others who were involved in business at the time.

The Guardian

"Or both?" The president's wives During Conté's period in power mineral prospectors resorted increasingly to accessing the president through his four wives, bestowing lavish gifts and bribes to gain favours, according to others who were involved in business at the time.

The Guardian

All eight Chinese companies scored less than three out of 10, and the report's authors said the leadership in six of the eight companies did not publicly support measures against corruption, none explicitly banned the payment of small bribes to gain favours, and none disclosed financial data in any of the 59 companies where they operate.

The Guardian

The shift was motivated by a desire to create a security zone along the Croatian border, establish Croatia as a regional power and gain favours with the West by forcing an end to the Bosnian War.

Wikipedia

Being a member of these inner circles brought huge advantages, as it was easier to gain favours from the king, file lawsuits, marry a wealthy heiress or have one's debts remitted.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gain favour", consider the context and choose synonyms if the situation implies insincere flattery or manipulation. Terms like "earn support" or "win approval" might be more appropriate in formal or ethical contexts.

Common error

While "gain favour" is acceptable, overuse can make writing sound repetitive. Vary your vocabulary by using alternatives like "earn support" or "secure approval" to add nuance and sophistication to your style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain favour" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of acquiring approval or support. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, from political strategies to marketing tactics, all aimed at winning over an audience or individual.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the analysis reveals that "gain favour" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed verb phrase, predominantly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, Science, and Wiki. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage for expressing the act of acquiring approval or support. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, the context can influence its perception, potentially implying manipulation. Writers should consider using synonyms like "earn support" or "win approval" for greater clarity or to avoid negative connotations. The data shows that understanding context is key when aiming to "gain favour" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

win approval

Focuses on achieving a positive evaluation or endorsement.

earn support

Emphasizes acquiring assistance or backing from others.

curry favor

Suggests trying to gain favor through flattery or insincere behavior.

ingratiate oneself

Highlights making oneself agreeable to gain acceptance or favor.

seek approval

Focuses on the act of actively looking for or requesting validation.

gain acceptance

Emphasizes being received or recognized favorably by a group or individual.

get in good graces

Implies obtaining a state of being well-regarded or esteemed.

find favor

Highlights discovering or encountering a positive disposition or attitude.

win someone over

Focuses on persuading or convincing someone to support or agree with you.

secure backing

Emphasizes obtaining official or financial support.

FAQs

How can I use "gain favour" in a sentence?

You can use "gain favour" to describe actions taken to earn approval or support, such as "The politician released prisoners to "gain favour" with the public."

What can I say instead of "gain favour"?

You can use alternatives like "win approval", "earn support", or "curry favor" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "gain favour with" or "gain the favour of"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "gain favour with" is more common and concise. "Gain the favour of" is more formal and less frequently used.

What is the difference between "gain favour" and "ingratiate oneself"?

"Gain favour" is a general term for earning approval or support. "Ingratiate oneself" implies deliberately trying to make someone like you, sometimes through flattery or insincere actions.