favors

word · lemma: favor

/ˈfeɪvɝz/
FAY-vurz
/fˈeɪvɐ/
FAY-vuhz

Definition

Things you do to help someone, usually as a kindness and not as part of your job. It can also mean acts of support or preference in some contexts.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly used in the plural for small helpful actions: 'do someone a favor' and 'ask for a favor'. 'In favor of' means supporting something, which is a different pattern. Be careful: 'favorite' is a different word.

Example Sentences

She often asks her friends for favors.

basic

I did him two favors last week.

basic

Small favors can make people happy.

basic

He keeps asking for favors, but he never helps anyone else.

natural

I don't mind doing favors for family, but there are limits.

natural

She's tired of people treating her kindness like a list of favors they can request anytime.

natural