B1 1K

Favor

UK //ˈfeɪvə// US //ˈfeɪvər// Pronunciation

Definition

An act of kindness or assistance given to someone.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Something helpful that you do for someone.

Examples

• Could you do me a favor and pick up my mail?
• She asked him for a small favor during the meeting.
• It's a favor to help a friend in need.
• I owe you a favor for lending me your book.
• Doing favors often builds strong relationships.

Usage notes

Use in casual or formal situations when requesting help or doing something nice for someone. Less appropriate in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

make + favor

Memory hint

Think of 'do me a favor' as a nice action, like adding flavor to a dish.

Collocations

• ask a favor
• do a favor
• a huge favor
• return a favor
• favor someone

Synonyms

• help
• service
• kindness
• support
• assistance

Antonyms

• disfavor
• hatred

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'flavor' in pronunciation.
• Using 'favor' as a verb incorrectly, e.g., 'I favor you to help.'
• Saying 'do a favor for someone' instead of 'do someone a favor.'