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Synonym Chooser

How is the word favorable different from other adjectives like it?

The words auspicious and propitious are common synonyms of favorable. While all three words 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

When is auspicious a more appropriate choice than favorable?

In some situations, the words auspicious and favorable are roughly equivalent. However, auspicious applies to something taken as a sign or omen promising success before or at the start of an event.

an auspicious beginning

When is it sensible to use propitious instead of favorable?

While in some cases nearly identical to favorable, propitious may also apply to beginnings but often implies a continuing favorable condition.

a propitious time for starting a business

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of favorable But even under more favorable conditions, the city failed to please Austen. Ellen Wexler, Smithsonian Magazine, 8 July 2025 Joining Colorado at the top of the list is Minnesota, which secured second place due to its high number of healthcare facilities, good quality of life, and favorable financial outlook for seniors. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2025 Drivers don’t have that data at their fingertips, but their anecdotal evidence has put Chicago in a favorable light. Jeff Gluck, New York Times, 6 July 2025 In the summer of 2010 during the peak of the Tea Party fervor, just 35% had a favorable view of the health care legislation. Domenico Montanaro, NPR, 5 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for favorable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for favorable
Adjective
  • Among Republicans, the gap is a 19% positive to a 43% negative.
    Philip Elliott, Time, 9 July 2025
  • The influx of capital is a net positive, fueling innovation and scaling operations.
    Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • His firing came on the same day two of the team’s most promising young stars, outfielder James Wood and pitcher Mackenzie Gore, made the National League All-Star team for the first time.
    Dan Schlossberg, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025
  • Stark noted that ascension has made Suarez one of the most promising pending free agents in the sport.
    Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • Peanut butter, in moderation, is a great source of protein and healthy fats like vitamins B and E, which can be beneficial for your dog’s muscles, skin, coat and eyes.
    Kelsey Monstrola, USA Today, 12 July 2025
  • Whey protein contains branched-chain amino acids, which are beneficial for muscle growth and recovery.
    Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • The most important thing to consider when determining if a certain plant is a good match for hydrangeas is growing conditions.
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 6 July 2025
  • After all, how often would Canada's biggest hockey market have a chance to acquire Canada's best player?
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
Adjective
  • The 5-foot-11, 191-pound former standout at Jacksonville’s Bartram Trail underwent offseason foot surgery in the spring, but a 3-tackle effort in the spring game was encouraging.
    Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 July 2025
  • The jury is out on 2024 first-rounder Hagen Smith but signs are encouraging.
    Phil Rogers, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • Blocking noise is a helpful feature for parents of napping children and night nurses who require restful sleep after their shifts.
    Jacqueline Tempera, People.com, 15 July 2025
  • Explain why this is a helpful exercise and not just unsanitary and a little awkward.
    EW.com, EW.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Snag them in this classic black color, or choose from 21 other color options, including bold patterns and bright hues.
    Genevieve Cepeda, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
  • Just keep in mind that this year’s 84% full moon will wash out all but the brightest meteors.
    Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 8 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Favorable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/favorable. Accessed 20 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on favorable

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