Favor or favour: which spelling should you use? Both spellings are correct but used in different regions. Let us discuss the difference in this article.
Favor or Favour – which spelling should you use?
In the United States, Canada, and other parts of the Americas, the spelling “favor” is commonly used. This spelling is also found in some parts of Africa, Asia, and Australia. However, in the United Kingdom, Ireland, India, and other parts of the English-speaking world, the spelling “favour” is more commonly used.
The reason for this difference in spelling is rooted in the history of the English language. The word “favor” is derived from the Latin word “favor,” which means “kindness” or “help.” The word “favour” is derived from the Old French word “favour,” which also means “kindness” or “help.”
When the Normans conquered England in 1066, they brought the Old French language with them, which eventually gave rise to the Middle English language. As a result, many words spelled one way in Old English were spelled differently in Middle English. The word “favour” is one such word, which was spelled “favour” in Middle English and has continued to be spelled that way in Modern English in the British Isles.
In the United States, the word “favor” has been spelled this way since the word was adopted into American English.
So, which spelling should you use?
If you are writing for an audience in the United States, Canada, or other parts of the Americas, use the spelling “favor.” If you are writing for an audience in the United Kingdom, Ireland, India, or other parts of the English-speaking world, use the spelling “favour.”
It’s also worth noting that in some cases, the word “favor” can also be used as a verb meaning “to oblige” or “to do a favor.” The verb form of “favour” is “favouring” in the UK, while “favoring” is in the US.
Favor vs Favour
Favor is the preferred spelling in American English. It is used to refer to a kind or helpful act that is done for someone. For example, “She did me a favor by picking up my groceries.” It can also be used as a noun, as in “I am in her favor.”
Favour is the preferred spelling in British English. It is used in the same way as favor but is considered more formal or polite. For example, “He extended a favour to his friends.” It can also be used as a verb: “He favours his younger brother.”
Summary
In summary, both favor and favour have the same meaning but are used in different regions and contexts. American English uses the spelling “favor” while British English uses the spelling “favour.”
