Favor: meaning, definitions and examples

A 'favor' is typically something done to help someone as a friendly gesture. It doesn’t usually expect anything in return.

• Could you do me a favor and check on my cat while I'm away?
• I'll return the favor when you need it.

'Kindness' refers to the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate, and is often used to describe small or spontaneous acts that make a positive impact.

• Her kindness towards strangers is truly admirable.
• A little kindness can go a long way.

A 'good deed' implies an action taken to help someone in a selfless and kind manner, often with a moral or ethical dimension.

• Helping the homeless is a good deed.
• She performed a good deed by volunteering at the shelter.

'Help' is a general term used in almost any situation where someone needs assistance or relief. It’s informal and widely applicable.

• Can you help me move this table?
• I need help with my homework.

Use 'assistance' in more formal situations where help is needed, often in professional or official contexts.

• We require your assistance with this project.
• Thank you for offering your assistance during the event.

Used when someone is treated with kindness, often doing something for someone else as a gesture of goodwill.

• I did her a favor by picking up her groceries.
• Can you do me a favor and watch my dog while I'm away?

Used when someone has an advantage over others that is deemed unjust or unethical.

• Having access to the exam questions beforehand gave him an unfair advantage.
• She believed that the wealthy students had an unfair advantage when it came to networking opportunities.

Describes an unfair preference or inclination that prevents objective judgment.

• The judge's bias was evident in the final decision.
• He has a bias for hiring only graduates from his alma mater.

Refers to giving someone special privileges or advantages over others, often in a formal or structured setting.

• The VIP members received preferential treatment at the event.
• Preferential treatment for certain employees can cause resentment in the workplace.

Implies breaking rules or behaving dishonestly to gain an unfair advantage. It has a strong negative connotation.

• He was caught cheating during the exam.
• Cheating in sports can lead to severe penalties.

In its second usage, it can mean showing kindness or granting a request, often implying a sense of obligation or helpfulness.

• Can you do me a favor and pick up my mail?
• He is always willing to return a favor.

Used when someone likes one thing more than another, often based on personal taste or inclination.

• I prefer staying at home on weekends.
• She prefers tea over coffee.

Used in situations where one makes a decision between two or more options, often implying a deliberate decision-making process.

• You can choose any dessert from the menu.
• He needs to choose between going to college and starting a job.

Used when someone makes a choice from a group, often implying a formal or careful decision.

• Please select the best candidate for the job.
• The chef will select the finest ingredients for the meal.