Favourite: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something or someone that is liked more than any other. Common in casual or everyday conversations.

• Pizza is my favourite food.
• That movie is my favourite.

Used to indicate a choice or option that is more desired than others. Often used in professional or formal contexts.

• His preferred method of communication is email.
• Our preferred time for the meeting is in the afternoon.

Often used to express deep affection or love. Can be used in both romantic and non-romantic contexts, but generally conveys strong emotion.

• She is my beloved wife.
• Our beloved teacher is retiring this year.

A term of endearment used to address someone you love or have affection for. Commonly used between romantic partners or to express affection towards children.

• Goodnight, my darling.
• Her little daughter is such a darling.

Used to describe something or someone that is held dear and treated with great care and affection. Often implies a sense of long-term value or importance.

• He kept a box of cherished memories from his childhood.
• Their cherished friendship lasted for decades.

When you refer to something or someone you like the most out of a group, usually in an informal setting.

• Chocolate is my favourite flavour of ice cream.
• She is my favourite teacher.

Used in more formal or professional settings to indicate a greater liking for one option over others.

• Her preferred method of communication is email.
• Our preferred supplier is ABC Corp.

When discussing the act of selecting from a range of options or when referring to the actual selected option.

• The choice of a career is very important.
• You have a choice between tea and coffee.

Used informally when referring to the selection of a person, thing, or option from a group.

• He always gets the first pick of the best apples.
• What's your pick for tonight's movie?

Often used affectionately to refer to a loved person, usually in romantic relationships or close family settings. It can also describe something that is very dear or cherished.

• Come here, darling, I missed you.
• This little cottage is an absolute darling.