favorable

[fey-ver-uh-buhl, feyv-ruh-]

adjective

1. characterized by approval or support; positive.

   a favorable report.

2. creating or winning favor; pleasing.

   to make a favorable impression.

3. affording advantage, opportunity, or convenience; advantageous.

   a favorable position.

4. (of an answer) granting what is desired.

5. boding well; propitious.

   The signs are favorable for a new start.

Other Word Forms

• favorableness noun
• favorably adverb
• nonfavorable adjective
• nonfavorableness noun
• nonfavorably adverb
• overfavorable adjective
• overfavorableness noun
• overfavorably adverb
• prefavorable adjective
• prefavorably adverb
• quasi-favorable adjective
• quasi-favorably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of favorable¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Anglo-French, Middle French, from Latin favōrābilis; equivalent to favor + -able

Example Sentences

“It is more favorable to Republicans than a large fraction of those simulated plans,” Wang said of the current third district map.

From Salon

In exchange, they would get more favorable access to federal research grants and additional funding, in addition to other benefits.

From Los Angeles Times

Few of them are favorable, highlighting his disdain for the late-night sketch comedy show, though his previous stints as host would suggest otherwise.

From Los Angeles Times

I’m cautious, too, about trusting the rule of law when, despite many favorable lower court rulings, the arc of the Supreme Court seems to bend ever more Trumpward.

From Salon

Shortly before Bass won the mayoral contest, 50% of Los Angeles voters had a favorable opinion of her, according to a UC Berkeley/Los Angeles Times poll.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• appropriate 
• beneficial 
• benign 
• convenient 
• encouraging www.thesaurus.com
• fair 
• helpful 
• pleasant 
• pleasing 
• suitable 
• useful