Definition of favorablenext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word favorable different from other adjectives like it?

The words auspicious and propitious are common synonyms of favorable. While all three words 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

When is auspicious a more appropriate choice than favorable?

In some situations, the words auspicious and favorable are roughly equivalent. However, auspicious applies to something taken as a sign or omen promising success before or at the start of an event.

an auspicious beginning

When is it sensible to use propitious instead of favorable?

While in some cases nearly identical to favorable, propitious may also apply to beginnings but often implies a continuing favorable condition.

a propitious time for starting a business

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of favorable The Denver Nuggets are sending Hunter Tyson and a 2032 second-round pick to Brooklyn in exchange for the lesser favorable of the Clippers’ or Hawks’ 2026 second-round pick. C.j. Holmes, New York Daily News, 5 Feb. 2026 Minnesota will receive the second-most favorable and Dallas will receive the least favorable of the three. Mike Curtis, Dallas Morning News, 5 Feb. 2026 Ranking just below Australia was Portugal, considered one of the safest places to retire and which the report recognized for its visa access, favorable taxation, lifestyle, and high safety rating. Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 5 Feb. 2026 The case has enjoyed a favorable trajectory to date. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for favorable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for favorable
Adjective
  • Both readings were less than anticipated, in a positive sign for consumers.
    Steve Kopack, NBC news, 13 Feb. 2026
  • And participating in sports that emphasize body functionality over physical appearance can have a positive effect on athletes’ overall well-being.
    Emily Hemendinger, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • One particularly promising application involves tracking when the ball crosses the sideline during kickoffs and punts.
    Jason Corso, Fortune, 8 Feb. 2026
  • Often, even the most promising young prospects disappear.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The combination of sports and fashion is therefore expected to have a beneficial ripple effect across different industries.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Flowers attract pollinators, many of whom are beneficial insects that deter other pests.
    Peg Aloi, The Spruce, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, makeup artists think spring breakers will pack their best cushion-y, cloud lips instead of their icy alternatives.
    Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 13 Feb. 2026
  • Kansas City figured its best sales pitch centered on its facilities and its location in the heart of America.
    Sam McDowell Updated February 13, Kansas City Star, 13 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • His manner, at least, is encouraging.
    Robert Lloyd, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2026
  • There were a lot of encouraging signs.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 7 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Although the paint job catches the eye, the new stands, which cost about $87,000 each, have several features that will be helpful to lifeguards and beachgoers.
    Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2026
  • Calling it connects directly to scammers trained to sound calm, helpful and urgent at the same time.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 13 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Statues of prominent citizens line the route, many missing heads or limbs, while religious and civic buildings once painted in bright colors now appear butter-yellow.
    Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Despite the loss, the future is bright for the Patriots and but first there's the reaction from after the Super Bowl.
    Will Richmond, The Providence Journal, 9 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Favorable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/favorable. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on favorable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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