win favour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "win favour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to gaining approval, support, or goodwill from someone, often in a social or professional context. Example: "The politician worked hard to win favour with the voters by addressing their concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

The party is trying to win favour with private businessmen.

The Economist

It was difficult to carve, however, and was slow to win favour in Greece.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At the same time, he hoped to win favour with the king for himself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Only one of the males, however, will win favour with the female.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Always say "Visha Crespo" - and never "Palermo Queens" - and you're bound to win favour with the ultra-friendly locals.

The Guardian - Travel

Even among the England fans he does not always win favour, despite being voted player of the year in 2010.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Deputies therefore needed to win favours for constituents, which could include suitable pieces of legislation or pressuring ministers or managers of state enterprises themselves often political appointees.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There are few obvious reasons for it to do so, yet the threat of one of the world's leading banks leaving London has no doubt helped to win favours.

The Guardian - Opinion

Sony initially won favour of the Japanese government due to having come to market first.

The Guardian - Tech

The Italian sparkling wine is winning favour as it is much cheaper than its French rival.

The Guardian - Business

Few other Republicans had alternative ideas to put forward and Ryan's plan won favour.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "win favour", consider the audience and the specific type of approval you're aiming to achieve. Tailor your actions or words to align with their values and expectations for more effective communication.

Common error

Remember that "favour" is the British English spelling, while "favor" is the American English spelling. Ensure you use the spelling appropriate for your target audience to maintain consistency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "win favour" functions primarily as a verb phrase. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It describes the action of gaining approval, support, or goodwill from someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

13%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "win favour" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes the act of gaining approval, support, or goodwill. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Encyclopedias, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. When using "win favour", consider the nuances of its alternatives, such as "curry favor", which implies a less genuine approach. Remember to use the appropriate spelling ("favour" in British English, "favor" in American English) to match your audience. Mastering this phrase will enhance your ability to communicate effectively and strategically in diverse situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

curry favor

This suggests attempting to gain favor through flattery or insincere actions.

gain acceptance

Focuses on being accepted or approved, rather than actively seeking favor.

seek approval

Highlights the act of looking for endorsement or agreement.

win someone over

This emphasizes persuading someone to support or agree with you.

ingratiate oneself

Implies deliberately trying to become liked or accepted by someone.

secure support

Focuses on obtaining backing or assistance from someone.

get in someone's good graces

This phrase denotes achieving a state of being well-regarded by someone.

earn respect

Emphasizes gaining respect through one's actions or qualities.

build rapport

Highlights establishing a harmonious relationship and mutual understanding.

gain an advantage

Centers on obtaining a beneficial position or opportunity.

FAQs

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

You can use "win favour" to describe actions taken to gain approval or support, such as, "The politician tried to "win favour" with voters by promising tax cuts.".

What's the difference between "win favour" and "curry favor"?

"Win favour" generally describes actions to gain genuine approval. "Curry favor", on the other hand, implies insincere flattery or obsequious behavior to "win favour", suggesting a lack of authenticity.

What are some alternatives to "win favour"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "win favour" could include "gain approval", "secure support", or "earn respect".

Is "win favour" formal or informal?

"Win favour" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the specific situation and audience to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.