Maintaining consistency is key in academic writing to achieve clarity and logic. Yet, distinguishing between British English vs. American English poses a challenge for numerous students, especially when deciding on the correct spelling for words like “favor” or “favour,” potentially causing confusion and misunderstandings. For a more profound insight into these two English variants, please read on.
“Favor” or “Favour”
The word “favor/favour” functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, the word refers to an act of kindness done to help another person. It can also be an act that’s owed rather than given. As a verb, it means to prefer or give someone more importance.
There is a slight spelling difference between British English and American English. In the first English variant, you’d write it “favour,” while Americans prefer the spelling “favor,” without a “u.” While both spellings are correct, your choice between them must depend on the regional or stylistic preferences.
British English
favour
American English
favor
In British English, the more common spelling is “favour” for both the noun and the verb. In American English, the more common spelling is “favor” for the noun and the verb.
Examples of using “favor” and “favour” as a verb
The following examples will illustrate the difference in the spelling of the verb “favor/favour” in British and American English.
- She decided to favour her younger son in her will.
- The judge seemed to favour one side during the trial.
- The climate in this region favours the growth of tropical fruits.
- She decided to favor her younger son in her will.
- The judge seemed to favor one side during the trial.
- The climate in this region favors the growth of tropical fruits.
Examples of using “favor” and “favour” as a noun
The following examples will illustrate the difference in the spelling of the noun “favor/favour” in British and American English.
- He owed me a favour for helping him last year.
- They exchanged favours as part of their business dealings.
- Can you do me a favour and check on the dog?
- He owed me a favor for helping him last year.
- They exchanged favors as part of their business dealings.
- Can you do me a favor and check on the dog?
“Favor” or “favour” in the “-ed” form
The past tense or past participle form of “favor/favour” is “favored” and “favoured” in the respective English variant. Below, you’ll find an overview with examples.
- British English: Favoured
- American English: Favored
- Historically, the law favoured landowners over tenants.
- She favoured dark chocolates over milk chocolates in the past.
- The team’s strategy favoured a defensive approach last season.
- Historically, the law favored landowners over tenants.
- She favored dark chocolates over milk chocolates in the past.
- The team’s strategy favored a defensive approach last season.
“Favor” or “Favour” in the “-ing” form
The “-ing” form of the verb, also called gerund and present participle, “favor/favour” is “favoring” and “favouring” for the respective English variant.
- British English: Favouring
- American English: Favoring
- The company policy is favouring innovation and creativity.
- Favouring her injured leg, she walked slowly.
- The strategy involves favouring renewable energy sources.
- The company policy is favoring innovation and creativity.
- Favoring her injured leg, she walked slowly.
- The strategy involves favoring renewable energy sources.
FAQs
Both versions are correct. “Favor” is American English, whereas “favour” is British English.
In the United Kingdom “favour” with a “u” is used.
Canadian English mainly follows British English guidelines. For this reason, “favour” is the correct spelling.
India follows British English guidelines, so “favour” is the correct spelling.
British English guidelines are predominantly used in Australia, therefore “favour” is correct.
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