favour - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
favour Word Meanings
- a kind act or gesture
- support or preference for something
favour Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
favour Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfeɪ.vər/
US
/ˈfeɪ.vɚ/
favour Word Etymology
favour comes from 'favor' (Latin 'favor') → Old French 'faveur' → English 'favour'. Imagine someone receiving a kind gesture, like a surprise treat, representing how small acts foster goodwill.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach out, hand hovering over a bag, then move to hold the door for a neighbor. The moment I choose to favour their need over mine is a small shift in intention that feels steady in my chest. It takes a bit of effort, a turn of attention, and I keep my pace light as I step back and let them through. That tiny act of favour shows how I can act in ordinary moments, and it shapes how I choose to treat others again and again.
Real Context
Favour, in British English, can be a noun meaning a kind act or gesture, or a preference or support for something. It is commonly used in the phrase 'to do someone a favour' to describe helping someone. It can also express support in 'in favour of' and 'to be in favour of' a proposal. The American spelling is 'favor', but the meaning is the same; the spelling difference is a common learner pitfall. The word carries a warm, sociable nuance and often implies intentional goodwill rather than a random occurrence. In everyday use, you might describe a small act of kindness as a favour, or say you are in favour of a plan.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: favour = kind act or support; favor = American spelling; be in favour of = support; do someone a favour = help someone; use for both acts and preferences; British usage tends to be more formal in writing.
Common Misconceptions
- Favour is not a form of money or payment.
- Do not assume favour must be a noun; it can also describe support (in favour of).
- Mixing up favor with favorite is common; they are unrelated.
- Avoid using favour when you mean a general preference without action.
- Spelling matters: use British favor in British contexts, American favor elsewhere.
Thinking Differences
Favour is flexible in British English, covering kind acts and preferences. Learners often confuse it with American 'favor' and with 'favorite'. Emphasize two common collocations: 'to do someone a favour' and 'be in favour of'.
Learning Tips
- Practice both senses: acts of kindness and showing preference.
- Always pair 'to do someone a favour' with a concrete action.
- Remember the British spelling; American contexts use 'favor'.
- Use 'in favour of' to express support, not obligation.
- Watch collocations with be in favour of and be in favour of a plan.
- Avoid translating directly from your language; focus on usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'favour'.
A.I will favour the color blue for my room.
B.Could you please favour me with your opinion?
C.She decided to favour the movie with her friends.
D.They had to favour the rules at the event.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'favour'?
A.Kindness
B.Fruit
C.Adventure
D.Flight
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'favour'?
A.Disfavor
B.Friendship
C.Gift
D.Support
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word can be used?
A.She asked for a favor from her neighbor.
B.I didn’t expect any help today.
C.A stranger helped me with my groceries.
D.The sun was shining brightly.
Related Listening
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