favours

Favours, or favors in American English, are acts of kindness or assistance performed for another person without an immediate expectation of payment. They can range from small courtesies to substantial services, and may be informal or formal. The term covers personal acts, professional obligations, and charitable gestures.

Examples include running an errand, lending money, writing a letter of recommendation, or endorsing someone’s application. In the workplace, a colleague might do a favour by sharing a lead or vouching for a candidate. In social life, favours help maintain friendships and networks through mutual support.

Favours function as a form of social currency in many cultures. The reciprocity principle—expecting a return favour in the future—helps sustain cooperation and trust. However, favours can become burdensome if the obligation is unclear or disproportionate, leading to resentment or pressure.

Ethical and legal concerns arise when favours resemble bribery, nepotism, or corruption. In business and government, unwritten exchanges can distort decisions or advantages based on relationships rather than merit. Clear boundaries, consent, and transparency are advised to minimize such risks.

Etymology and usage notes: favour derives from Old French favoure and Latin favor, meaning goodwill or support. The spelling favours is standard in British English, favors in American English. The sense also includes a preference or liking, as in having a favour for someone or being in favour of something.