Favorite vs. Favourite: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on October 7, 2023
"Favorite" is the American spelling, while "Favourite" is the British spelling; both mean preferred or liked above others.
Key Differences
When delving into the realms of the English language, nuances such as the usage of "Favorite" and "Favourite" come to light. "Favorite" is a term familiar to those who use American English. It is utilized to describe something or someone that is especially preferred or liked. It encompasses objects, places, people, and even activities that one might hold in high regard.
"Favourite," on the other hand, echoes the same sentiment and meaning but follows the British spelling convention. The British Isles, along with many countries that were once part of the British Empire, adhere to this spelling. It's worth noting that while the spelling is different, the pronunciation remains largely the same, with slight regional variations.
Such variations in spelling between American and British English are not unique to these terms. "Color" vs. "Colour" and "Honor" vs. "Honour" are just a few examples. Nevertheless, for "Favorite" and "Favourite," the core essence remains unchanged – indicating something held in special affection or esteem.
In the age of digital communication, it's important to be aware of such distinctions, especially if one is communicating with global audiences. While "Favorite" might be instantly recognized and preferred in an American setting, "Favourite" might resonate more with a British or Commonwealth audience.
Comparison Chart
Spelling Origin
American English
British English
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Usage Regions
United States
UK, Canada, Australia, and other Commonwealths
Example Variants
Color, Honor
Colour, Honour
Meaning
Preferred or liked above others
Preferred or liked above others
Adaptation in Digital Tools
Set as default in US-based platforms
Set as default in UK-based platforms
Favorite and Favourite Definitions
Favorite
Regularly used or visited.
This park is my favorite spot.
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Favourite
Something preferred over others.
Earl Grey is my favourite tea.
Favorite
Something preferred over others.
Chocolate ice cream is my favorite.
Favourite
Most liked or enjoyed.
Football is his favourite sport.
Favorite
The competitor believed to win.
The home team is the favorite in today's match.
Favourite
Regularly used or visited.
That café is her favourite hangout.
Favorite
One that enjoys special favor or regard.
Favourite
A person or thing treated with special favor.
He was the coach's favourite player.
Favorite
One that is trusted, indulged, or preferred above all others, especially by a superior
A favorite of the monarch.
Favourite
Preferred or liked above all others unless qualified.
This is my second favourite occupation.
Favorite
A contestant or competitor regarded as most likely to win.
Favourite
Belonging to a category whose members are all preferred or liked over nonmembers.
I just saw a movie with all my favourite actors in it.
Favorite
Liked or preferred above all others; regarded with special favor.
Favourite
A person or thing who enjoys special regard or favour.
The teacher's favourite always went first.
Favorite
(American spelling) favourite
Favourite
A person who is preferred or trusted above all others.
Favorite
(American spelling) favourite
Favourite
A contestant or competitor thought most likely to win.
You were my favourite to win the spelling competition.
She's the favourite, she'll probably be elected.
Favorite
(American spelling) favourite
Favourite
(internet) A bookmark in a web browser.
Favorite
A person or thing regarded with peculiar favor; one treated with partiality; one preferred above others; especially, one unduly loved, trusted, and enriched with favors by a person of high rank or authority.
Committing to a wicked favoriteAll public cares.
Favourite
(in the plural) A short curl dangling over the temples, fashionable in the reign of Charles II.
Favorite
Short curls dangling over the temples; - fashionable in the reign of Charles II.
Favourite
To favour.
Favorite
The competitor (as a horse in a race) that is judged most likely to win; the competitor standing highest in the betting.
Favourite
(Internet) To bookmark.
Favorite
Regarded with particular affection, esteem, or preference; as, a favorite walk; a favorite child.
Favourite
(Internet) To add to one's list of favourite items on a website that allows users to compile such lists.
Favorite
Something regarded with special favor or liking;
That book is one of my favorites
Favourite
A competitor thought likely to win
Favorite
A special loved one
Favourite
A special loved one
Favorite
A competitor thought likely to win
Favourite
Something regarded with special favor or liking;
That book is one of my favorites
Favorite
Appealing to the general public;
A favorite tourist attraction
Favourite
Appealing to the general public;
A favorite tourist attraction
Favorite
Preferred above all others and treated with partiality;
The favored child
Favourite
Preferred above all others and treated with partiality;
The favored child
Favorite
A person or thing treated with special favor.
She was the teacher's favorite.
Favourite
The competitor believed to win.
The defending champion is the favourite to win.
Favorite
Most liked or enjoyed.
Reading is my favorite pastime.
FAQs
Which spelling is used in the United States?
"Favorite" is the standard spelling in the United States.
Why do these spelling differences exist?
Spelling differences have evolved due to historical, linguistic, and cultural reasons.
Is there a difference in pronunciation?
Generally, both are pronounced similarly, with minor regional variations.
In which version of English does "Color" align with "Favorite"?
"Color" and "Favorite" are both American English spellings.
Which countries commonly use "Favourite"?
"Favourite" is used in the UK, Canada, Australia, and many other Commonwealth countries.
How did these spelling differences come about?
The differences stem from historical linguistic influences and standardization efforts in the US and UK.
Does Australian English use "Favorite" or "Favourite"?
Australian English uses "Favourite."
Are "Favorite" and "Favourite" synonyms?
Yes, they convey the same meaning but differ in regional spelling.
If I'm writing for a global audience, which spelling should I use?
Consider your primary audience or use a style that clearly indicates your choice, like American or British English.
How do Canadians spell it?
Canadians typically use the British form, "Favourite."
Are there other words with similar American and British spelling differences?
Yes, examples include "Color/Colour" and "Honor/Honour."
In digital platforms, do I see "Favorite" or "Favourite" based on my location?
Typically, platforms adapt based on regional settings, but it's not universally consistent.
Why is it important to know both spellings?
Knowing both helps in understanding and communicating effectively with diverse audiences.
Which form is older, "Favorite" or "Favourite"?
Both forms have old origins, but their current usages were solidified with regional standardizations.
Is one form more formal than the other?
No, formality is not dictated by this spelling difference; it's a matter of regional usage.
If I use "Favourite" in the US, will people understand?
Yes, people will understand, but "Favorite" is the conventional US spelling.
Is it incorrect to use "Favourite" in American writing?
While it's not inherently wrong, "Favorite" is the standard American spelling.
Does software like Microsoft Word recognize both spellings?
Yes, but the preferred spelling may depend on the language setting of the software.
Are there any other differences between American and British English I should be aware of?
There are many, spanning spelling, grammar, and vocabulary.
Will the spellings ever converge in the future?
While languages evolve, there's no indication these specific spellings will merge.
About Author
Written 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.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
