Favourite vs. Favorite: What Is the Main Difference?

Have you ever wondered why some people spell “favourite” while others use “favorite”? The difference between these two spellings might seem puzzling, but it’s all about where you live and how you learned to write.

The Difference Between Favourite and Favorite

Favourite vs. Favorite: Key Takeaways

  • ‘Favourite’ is the preferred spelling in British English.
  • ‘Favorite’ is the preferred spelling in American English.
Favourite vs. Favorite
Favourite vs. Favorite – Created by 7ESL

Favourite vs. Favorite: The Definition

What Does Favourite Mean?

“Favourite” is an adjective used to express one’s preference for something or someone, indicating a personal choice or the most liked or preferred option among a selection.

It is commonly used in British English and other forms of English influenced by British spelling conventions.

  • For example, a “favourite” book, color, or food is one that holds a special place in a person’s affections or is most preferred. The term can also be used to describe a person who is held in high regard or is especially liked by others.

What Does Favorite Mean?

In American English, ‘favorite’ conveys the same meaning, referring to a preferred person, thing, or concept. It’s the American variation of favourite.

  •  For example, “My favorite color is blue” expresses a personal preference for the color blue over other colors.

Let’s take a look at the comparison table below to see the differences:

British English (Favourite) American English (Favorite)
The book was her favourite. The movie is his favorite.
He is the crowd’s favourite. She is the team’s favorite player.

Tips to Remember the Differences

  • Remember that ‘u’ signifies the UK, which can help you associate ‘favourite’ with British English.
  • Recall that the U.S. simplifies certain spellings, so ‘favorite’ lacks the ‘u’, making it American English.

Favourite vs. Favorite: Examples

Example Sentences Using Favourite

  • Her all-time favourite movie is a classic romance that she has watched countless times.
  • The chocolate cake is a crowd favourite at the bakery due to its rich, indulgent flavor.
  • He considers his loyal dog to be his closest and most cherished favourite companion.
  • The author’s latest novel quickly became a favourite among readers for its captivating storyline.
  • The park is a popular spot for families, with the carousel being a particular favourite among children.
  • She proudly displayed her favourite artwork, a vibrant painting that held sentimental value for her.

Example Sentences Using Favorite

  • Pizza is my all-time favorite food, and I could eat it every day.
  • Her favorite color is turquoise because it reminds her of the ocean.
  • The movie she watched last night quickly became her new favorite film.
  • His favorite pastime is reading, and he spends hours immersed in his favorite novels.
  • The ice cream parlor offers a wide variety of flavors, but chocolate remains a favorite among customers.
  • She keeps a collection of her favorite photographs to cherish the special memories they hold.

Related Confused Words

Favourite vs. Flavor

Favourite” pertains to personal preference or liking, while “flavor” refers to the specific taste or aroma of food or drink.

  • “Favourite” is a term used to express preference or the most liked or preferred option among a selection. It is commonly used in British English and other forms of English influenced by British spelling conventions. For example, “Chocolate is my favourite flavor of ice cream.”
  • Flavor” refers to the distinctive taste or aroma of a food or beverage. It is used to describe the specific quality that distinguishes different types of food or drink. For example, “Vanilla is a popular flavor for desserts.”

Favorite vs. Favor

Favorite” pertains to personal preference or liking, while “favor” refers to an act of kindness, support, or preference.

  • Favorite” typically refers to something that is preferred or liked above all others. It is commonly used to express personal preference or the most liked or preferred option among a selection. For example, “Pizza is my favorite food to eat on weekends”
  • Favor” generally denotes an act of kindness or goodwill, often done as a gesture of assistance or support. It can also refer to an act of preference or partiality, such as showing favoritism towards someone or something. For example, “The manager decided to do her a favor by giving her an extra day off.”