favorable

adjective fa·vor·able \ˈfā-v(ə-)rə-bəl, ˈfā-vər-bəl\

: showing approval

: expressing approval : giving or providing what is desired

: giving a result that helps, benefits, or shows approval of someone

Full Definition of FAVORABLE

a : disposed to favor : partial

b : expressing approval : commendatory

c : giving a result that is in one's favor <a favorable comparison>

d : affirmative <a favorable reply>

: winning approval : pleasing <a favorable impression>

a : tending to promote or facilitate : advantageous <a favorable wind>

b : marked by success

— fa·vor·abil·i·ty \ˌfā-v(ə-)rə-ˈbi-lə-tē, ˌfā-vər-\ noun

— fa·vor·able·ness noun

— fa·vor·ably \ˌfā-v(ə-)rə-blē, ˌfā-vər-blē\ adverb

See favorable defined for English-language learners

See favorable defined for kids

First Known Use of FAVORABLE

14th century

Related to FAVORABLE

Synonyms: admiring, applauding, appreciative, approbatory, approving, commendatory, complimentary, friendly, good, positive

Antonyms: adverse, depreciative, depreciatory, derogatory, disapproving, inappreciative, negative, unappreciative, uncomplimentary, unfavorable, unflattering, unfriendly

Synonym Discussion of FAVORABLE

favorable, auspicious, propitious mean pointing toward a happy outcome. favorable implies that the persons involved are approving or helpful or that the circumstances are advantageous <favorable weather conditions>. auspicious applies to something taken as a sign or omen promising success before or at the start of an event <an auspicious beginning>. propitious may also apply to beginnings but often implies a continuing favorable condition <a propitious time for starting a business>.

FAVORABLE Defined for Kids