What Does "in favor of" Mean?
- Grammatical function: This expression primarily functions as a multi-word prepositional phrase. It expresses a relationship of support, approval, or preference. It can indicate an inclination toward an idea (pro-argument) or the act of replacing one thing with another.
- Typical sentence position: It most frequently appears in the medial position (following a verb like 'be', 'vote', or 'rule') or the final position. It is rarely used in the initial position unless part of an introductory prepositional phrase.
- Register: It is generally neutral to formal. It is equally at home in legal rulings, journalism, and academic discourse as it is in standard professional speech.
How to Use It
- Syntactic patterns: It is typically preceded by a verb (e.g., "decide in favor of") or a noun ("arguments in favor of"). It is followed by a noun phrase or a gerund (-ing form).
- Punctuation rules: Generally, no commas are needed when it follows a verb. However, if used as a parenthetical aside or at the start of a long introductory phrase, a comma may follow the entire phrase.
- Grammatical flexibility: It can be easily negated (e.g., "not in favor of"). While it can start a sentence, it usually requires a comma-separated clause to follow, such as "In favor of the new policy, the board members signed the petition."
- What sounds unnatural: Using an infinitive (to + verb) after "of" is grammatically incorrect. One should say "in favor of going" rather than "in favor of to go."
Real-World Examples
These examples are sourced from in favor of on Ludwig.guru.
"Four Republicans voted in favor of confirmation." — nytimes.com
"Erase eats hungrily in favor of devours." — nytimes.com
"It should rule in favor of Hastings." — nytimes.com
"We're in favor of selling books." — newyorker.com
"weigh in favor of a fair use." — lib.berkeley.edu
Similar Phrases and Alternatives
| Phrase |
Context |
| pro |
More informal or shorthand; used in debates or lists of pros and cons. |
| supportive of |
Focuses more on the emotional or moral backing of a person or cause. |
| on the side of |
Idiomatic; suggests taking a position in a conflict or competition. |
| advocating for |
More active; implies public support or speaking out for a cause. |
| instead of |
Used specifically when 'in favor of' implies substitution or replacement. |
Common Mistakes
- Confusing it with 'in favor with': Learners often confuse it with 'in favor with,' which refers to being liked by someone rather than supporting a specific choice or idea. For example, you are "in favor with the boss" (liked by them) but "in favor of the new schedule" (supporting the plan).
- Object Choice: Using a base verb instead of a gerund. Always use a noun or the -ing form after the preposition "of."
- Redundancy: Pairing it with other supportive verbs unnecessarily, such as "supporting in favor of," where one expression would suffice.
Quick-Reference Summary
| Expression |
Function |
Register |
Typical Position |
| in favor of |
Expressing support or preference |
Neutral / Formal |
Medial or Final |
FAQs
Can in favor of be used at the beginning of a sentence
Yes, in favor of can appear in the sentence-initial position when it introduces a prepositional phrase that sets the context for the main clause. In these instances, the phrase must be followed by a comma before the subject of the sentence appears.
What is the difference between in favor of and supportive of
While both express approval, in favor of is often used for specific choices, votes, or substitutions in a formal context. In contrast, supportive of often describes a general attitude or emotional backing toward a person or a movement.
Is there a difference between in favor of and in favor with
Learners often confuse it with in favor with, which refers to being liked or held in high esteem by someone. Use in favor of when you want to express support for a specific idea, policy, or choice rather than a social status.