favor

/ˈfeɪvər/
kind act or special treatment

She asked me for a favor to help her move.

She requested a kind act of assistance.


informal

An act of kindness or special treatment given to someone

Can you do me a favor and pick up some groceries?

Can you help me by buying groceries?

Often used in requests or expressions of gratitude.

neutral

A feeling of preference or partiality toward someone or something

The judge showed favor to the defendant.

The judge was biased in favor of the defendant.

Can imply bias or unfair advantage.

Collocations

do a favorto help someoneask for a favorto request assistancein favor ofsupporting or preferring something

Related Phrases

in favor ofphrase
supporting or preferring something

Pro Tip

Common Usage

The word 'favor' is often used in requests for help or expressions of gratitude.

Gold Rule

Verb vs. Noun

Be mindful of the context—'favor' can be a noun (an act of kindness) or a verb (to prefer).

Word Origin

From Middle English 'favour,' from Old French 'favor,' from Latin 'favor' meaning 'goodwill.'

Usage Notes

Can be used as a noun or verb ('to favor'). The verb form means to prefer or show partiality.

Word Breakdown

favor
kindness or preference
root
English Dictionary