Favorably vs. Favourably: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 11, 2023
"Favorably" and "favourably" are the same in meaning, indicating approval or support, but differ in spelling between American English ("favorably") and British English ("favourably").
Key Differences
"Favorably" is the American English spelling used to describe something in a positive or approving manner. "Favourably," on the other hand, is the British English version of the same word, with the same meaning and usage.
When used in a sentence, "favorably" implies approval, support, or a positive outcome. Similarly, "favourably" conveys the same sense of approval or positivity but adheres to British spelling conventions.
The difference in spelling reflects the general variations between American and British English, such as the dropping of 'u' in some words in American English. Both "favorably" and "favourably" are used in similar contexts and have identical connotations.
In American publications or correspondence, "favorably" is the preferred spelling, while "favourably" is used in British or Commonwealth countries' documents.
Beyond the spelling, there is no difference in the meaning, pronunciation, or use of "favorably" and "favourably." They are interchangeable depending on the variant of English being used.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling
American English
British English
Meaning
Positive or approving manner
Positive or approving manner
Usage
Used in American English contexts
Used in British English contexts
Pronunciation
Same for both
Same for both
Context
American publications, documents
British/Commonwealth publications, documents
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Favorably and Favourably Definitions
Favorably
In a way that shows approval or support.
The proposal was received favorably by the board.
Favourably
Suggesting a positive result or perspective.
Her application was considered favourably.
Favorably
To the advantage of someone or something.
The weather conditions worked out favorably for the event.
Favourably
Beneficially or to someone's advantage.
The court's decision reflected favourably on her case.
Favorably
Indicating a positive outcome or perception.
Her performance was reviewed favorably.
Favourably
Indicating a good chance of success or acceptance.
The proposal is likely to be received favourably.
Favorably
Showing or characterized by approval or acceptance.
His ideas were met favorably by the committee.
Favourably
Characterized by or showing approval.
The new strategy was received favourably by the staff.
Favorably
With a likelihood to succeed or be received well.
The new policy is expected to impact the economy favorably.
Favourably
In a manner that demonstrates approval or support.
The project was viewed favourably by the investors.
Favorably
Advantageous; helpful
Favorable winds.
Favourably
In a favourable manner.
She looked favourably on people who gave freely their assistance.
Favorably
Encouraging; propitious
A favorable diagnosis.
Favourably
Showing approval;
He reviewed the play favorably
Favorably
Manifesting approval; commendatory
A favorable report.
Favorably
Winning approval; pleasing
A favorable impression.
Favorably
Granting what has been desired or requested
A favorable reply.
Favorably
Indulgent or partial
Listened with a favorable ear.
Favorably
In a favorable manner.
She looked favorably on people who gave freely their assistance.
Favorably
Showing approval;
He reviewed the play favorably
FAQs
Is favourably spelled differently in the UK?
Yes, favourably is the British English spelling.
Are favorably and favourably interchangeable?
Yes, they are interchangeable but depend on American or British English usage.
How is favorably used in a sentence?
Favorably is used to describe something in a positive way.
In which countries is favourably the preferred spelling?
Favourably is preferred in the UK and other Commonwealth countries.
Does favourably have the same pronunciation as favorably?
Yes, both words have the same pronunciation.
Can a decision be received favorably?
Yes, a decision can be received favorably, meaning it is well-received.
Does the meaning of favourably change in different contexts?
No, the meaning of favourably remains consistent across different contexts.
Can favorably indicate success?
Yes, favorably can indicate a likelihood of success.
Can favourably imply beneficial circumstances?
Yes, favourably can imply circumstances that are beneficial.
What does favorably mean?
Favorably means in a positive or approving manner.
Is favorably used in formal writing?
Yes, favorably is used in both formal and informal writing in the US.
What is an example of favourably in a business context?
"The merger was viewed favourably by the shareholders."
Can weather conditions be described as favorably?
Yes, weather conditions can be described as favorably when they are good.
What type of feedback does favorably suggest?
Favorably suggests positive or approving feedback.
Is favourably used in legal contexts?
Yes, favourably can be used in legal contexts to indicate approval.
Can favorably be used in performance reviews?
Yes, favorably can be used to describe positive aspects in performance reviews.
Can a product launch be favorably received?
Yes, a product launch can be favorably received if it is met with approval or success.
How do Americans spell favourably?
Americans spell it as "favorably."
Is favourably a positive term?
Yes, favourably is used to describe something positively.
How do British English speakers use favorably?
British English speakers use "favourably" instead of "favorably."
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
