favor

The word “favor” means (US spelling; UK "favour") A kind or helpful act done for someone. In plain terms, a helpful act, or general approval and preference toward something or someone.

“Favor” is pronounced FAY-vuh (/ˈfeɪ.vɚ/ in IPA).

Here is “favor” used in a sentence: “Could you do me a favor and pick up some milk?”

Words with a similar meaning to “favor” include aid, help, lending a hand, token, abet and assist.

The opposite of “favor” — its antonyms — are discrimination, disfavor, unfavor, harm and sabotage.

Depending on how it is used, “favor” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “favor” comes from Latin. From Latin favor, "goodwill, support", from favere, "to be kind to, support".

“Favor” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

There is no difference in meaning — only in spelling. 'Favor' is the American spelling, while 'favour' is used in British and Commonwealth English. Both mean a kind, helpful act done for someone. The same pattern appears in words like color and colour, or honor and honour.

Asking 'can you do me a favor and watch my bag?' is a classic example. Giving a friend a lift, lending someone a small sum, or covering a colleague's shift are all favors — helpful acts done willingly and usually without expecting payment or anything in return.

Beyond a helpful act, favor can mean approval or support, as in 'the plan was met with favor' or 'voting in favor.' It can also mean preferential treatment — 'showing favor' to one person over others. As a verb, to favor something is to prefer or support it.

A favor is a helpful act done out of goodwill, usually for free and often for someone you know. A service is help provided more formally, frequently as a job and in exchange for payment. Helping a neighbour move is a favor; hiring movers is paying for a service.