B1noun3K

Favour

UK /["/ˈfeɪvə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈfeɪvər/"]/

Definition

a thing that you do to help somebody

In simple words: A kind action that you do for someone.

Examples

  • Can you do me a favour and help me with my homework?
  • She showed her favour towards the proposal during the meeting.
  • The teacher always had a favour for students who participated actively.
  • In the election, the candidate earned the favour of many voters.
  • It was clear that he was in favour of the new policy changes.

Usage notes

Use 'favour' when asking someone to help you. It's appropriate in most situations but can sound formal in casual contexts. Avoid using it when asking for something that implies a necessity.

Grammar pattern

favour + object

Memory hint

Think of 'favour' as 'favor' but with an extra 'u' for 'you' when you help someone.

Collocations

  • big
  • great
  • huge
  • ask
  • expect
  • bestow
  • good
  • great
  • high
  • be in
  • enjoy
  • have
  • in favour of
  • in somebody’s/​something’s favour
  • favour among
  • an argument in somebody/​something’s favour
  • a bias in somebody/​something’s favour
  • look with favour on somebody/​something

Synonyms

  • bias

Antonyms

  • disfavor
  • dislike

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'favor' (American spelling) — remember 'favour' is the British spelling.
  • Using 'favour' in negative sentences incorrectly — e.g., 'I can't do no favour'.
  • Mixing up 'favour' as a noun and verb incorrectly.