return the favor
idiom
: to do something the same or similar in return for something done
He treats them well, and they return the favor.
Examples of return the favor in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In two consecutive postseasons, Denver has been vexed by an opponent’s ability to junk it up and unable to return the favor.
—
Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 10 Oct. 2025
After the Brewers knocked out Matthew Boyd in the first inning of Game 1 of the series, the Cubs were able to return the favor.
—Sahadev Sharma, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025
When Russell extended his hand for a shake in the closing moments, Perkins Johnson did not return the favor, instead asking him where his reports were.
—Charlotte Observer, 5 Sep. 2025
For American Eagle, the bet is clear: If Swift can introduce the NFL to millions of young women, Kelce might be able to return the favor by pulling her fandom into retail, Litman added.
—Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for return the favor
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.
Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 10 Oct. 2025
After the Brewers knocked out Matthew Boyd in the first inning of Game 1 of the series, the Cubs were able to return the favor.
—Sahadev Sharma, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025
When Russell extended his hand for a shake in the closing moments, Perkins Johnson did not return the favor, instead asking him where his reports were.
—Charlotte Observer, 5 Sep. 2025
For American Eagle, the bet is clear: If Swift can introduce the NFL to millions of young women, Kelce might be able to return the favor by pulling her fandom into retail, Litman added.
—Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for return the favor
Cite this Entry
“Return the favor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/return%20the%20favor. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share