adj.
Pronunciation: ' f ā -v( ə -)r ə -b ə l, ' f ā -v ə r-b ə l
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 · able · ness noun
– fa · vor · ably \ -bl ē \ 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>.