Main Entry:

fa·vor·able

Pronunciation:

\ˈfā-v(ə-)rə-bəl, ˈfā-vər-bəl\

Function:

adjective

Date:

14th century

1 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>2: winning approval : pleasing <a favorable impression>3 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

synonyms 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>.