“Favorite” and “favourite” are different spellings of the same word. So, does it matter if you write about your favourite t-shirt or your favorite one? Many people (especially proofreaders) would say, “Yes, it does.” In this post, we’ll explain when you should use these two spellings.
“Favorite” (or “favourite”) is usually used as an adjective that means most preferred:
Apple pie is my favorite / favourite dessert.
It can also be used as a noun to describe the thing that’s most preferred:
This dessert is my favorite / favourite.
Choosing the right spelling depends on the audience you’re writing for. If your readers are mostly Americans, you should use “favorite.” For the rest of the English-speaking world, though, the correct spelling is “favourite.”
This rule applies whether you’re using the word as an adjective or a noun:
● US English: My favorite team is the Dallas Cowboys.
Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.
● Other English dialects (including UK and Australian): My favourite team is Manchester United.
● US English: Rock music is my favorite.
● Other English dialects: Folk music is my favourite.
So, why does US English drop the “u”? The simplified spelling was popularized by Noah Webster, who published The American Dictionary of the English Language in 1828. Webster is also credited with the Americanized spellings of “color,” “candor,” “humor,” etc.
“Favorite” and “favourite” are different spellings of the same word. The spelling you should choose depends on the dialect you’re writing in. Most English dialects use “favourite” with a “u.” The only exception is US English, which omits the “u” to give “favorite.”
Hopefully, you now feel confident in using the right spelling of this word in your writing. If you’d like one of our experts to double check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation, you can send us a free trial document for proofreading today.
Δ
5-minute read
Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...
6-minute read
If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...
9-minute read
Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...
8-minute read
Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...
7-minute read
Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...
4-minute read
Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...