What's the Difference Between 'Favor' and 'Favour'?

In this blog post we look at when to use favor and when to use favour.

'Favor' or 'Favour'?

"Favor" and "favour" are different spellings of the same word, which means "kindness or helpfulness shown towards someone or something."

The word is typically used as a noun, but it can also be used as a verb, as in "to favor someone or something."

In American English, the spelling is "favor," while in British English, the spelling is "favour." Both spellings are used correctly and are acceptable in their respective regions.

The word "favor" (or "favour") can be used to refer to a small, kind act or gesture.

For example: "She did me a favor by lending me her car when mine was in the shop." 

It can also refer to support or preference, as in "The politician is trying to win favor with voters by promising to lower taxes."

The verb form "favor" (or "favour") means to show kindness or helpfulness towards someone or something, or to support or prefer something.

For example: "The company is trying to favor its most loyal customers by offering them exclusive discounts." or "I favor this proposal over the others because it seems the most practical."

It's worth noting that while both spellings are correct and acceptable, it's important to use the spelling that is standard in your region or the region you are writing for.

In general, "favor" is used in American English, while "favour" is used in British English.

Here are some examples using the word "favor" (American spelling) and "favour" (British spelling):

  • She did me a favor by lending me her car. (American)

  • He did me a favour by lending me his car. (British)

  • The company is trying to curry favor with its customers by offering special discounts. (American)

  • The company is trying to curry favour with its customers by offering special discounts. (British)

  • I would be grateful if you could do me the favor of picking up some milk on your way home. (American)

  • I would be grateful if you could do me the favour of picking up some milk on your way home. (British)

Examples of Favor in a Sentence

Here are ten example sentences using the word "favor":

  1. She did me a favor by lending me her car when mine was in the shop.

  2. The company is trying to curry favor with its customers by offering special discounts.

  3. I would be grateful if you could do me the favor of picking up some milk on your way home.

  4. The politician is trying to win favor with voters by promising to lower taxes.

  5. The teacher showed favoritism towards the star athlete in the class.

  6. I favor this proposal over the others because it seems the most practical.

  7. The company is trying to favor its most loyal customers by offering them exclusive discounts.

  8. The movie received favorable reviews from critics.

  9. The chef prepared a special dish in favor of the food critic.

  10. The coach showed favor towards the veteran players on the team.

Examples of Favour in a Sentence

Here are ten example sentences using the word "favour":

  1. The customer service representative went out of her way to do a favour for the unhappy client.

  2. The government's new policies have not been received favourably by the public.

  3. The parents favoured their older child over the younger one, causing resentment within the family.

  4. The candidate is trying to win favour with the party's leadership by volunteering for campaign work.

  5. The teacher gave extra help to the struggling student as a favour, despite being busy with other responsibilities.

  6. The CEO is trying to win favour with the board of directors by presenting a solid business plan.

  7. The student asked the professor for a favour by requesting an extension on the assignment.

  8. The company is trying to favour its most valuable employees by offering them additional benefits.

  9. The director favoured the actor over the others, leading to accusations of nepotism.

  10. The politician promised to do a favour for the constituent in exchange for their vote.


Favor or Favour
Favor or Favour