favourite - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
favourite Word Meanings
- preferred item or choice
- most liked or beloved
- a person or thing liked more than others
favourite Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
favourite Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfeɪvərɪt/
US
/ˈfeɪvərɪt/
favourite Word Etymology
(a) 'favour' + '-ite'; (b) From Latin 'favorem' → Old French 'favor' → English 'favourite'; (c) Imagine a royal court where the king shows favour to his chosen advisor, making them the 'favourite' and surrounded by lavish gifts and attention.
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 for the shelf and move a few cups aside, letting the light land on one that feels just right. I turn it in my hand, adjust my grip, and feel a small push of decision as I pull it closer. It becomes my favourite, not because it shines, but because choosing it tells me what I want today. Keeping it within reach, I place it where I can see it every morning, a small ritual that sets the day in motion.
Real Context
Favourites are the things or people you prefer above others, and the word can describe both objects and individuals. In English, 'favourite' (British spelling) or 'favorite' (American spelling) points to the item you most enjoy or trust, rather than the one you merely like. The sense ranges from a preferred snack or book to a beloved friend or mentor, and it often implies loyalty, personal taste, or sentimental value. We talk about daily choices ('my favourite song') and about social approval ('the team earned her favourite status'). Learners should notice the nuance that 'favourite' is relative and subjective, not an objective standard.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use favourite for top picks, not just any liking. 2) Mind the British spelling vs American: favourite vs favorite. 3) It can describe people or things. 4) Pair with verbs like be, is, are, or have as in 'my favourite book is...'. 5) Avoid overusing in formal writing; reserve for personal emphasis.
Common Misconceptions
- Spelling differences only affect appearance, not meaning.
- It can only describe people, not things.
- It always means something extremely positive, like a lifelong commitment.
- You should use it with every preference you mention.
- It's interchangeable with 'favorite' in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
English speakers link favourite to a subjective top choice, often shaped by taste, memory, or sentiment; learners may overgeneralize to all likes or confuse with 'favorite' in US contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn that favourite and favorite are spelling variants with the same core meaning.
- Practice sentences that express a personal top pick, not just general liking.
- Note that it can describe people as well as things.
- Compare with other adjectives like 'preferred' to choose the right tone.
- Use it in everyday speech to sound natural in UK contexts.
- Avoid overusing in formal writing; reserve for emphasis or sentiment.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'favourite'?
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using 'favourite':
A.My favourite game is chess.
B.Chocolate is my favourite color.
C.The favourite book was on the shelf.
D.He is the favourite player of his team.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'favourite'?
A.Old
B.Preferred
C.Common
D.Random
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'favourite'?
A.Chosen
B.Best
C.Least liked
D.Selected
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might mention their 'favourite'?
A.People often discuss their favourite movies with friends.
B.She enjoys reading the book many times.
C.He was excited about his top-chosen dish at the restaurant.
D.Everyone loves to go shopping on weekends.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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