What does unfavourable mean?
Unfavourable is an adjective meaning negative, disapproving, or detrimental to success. It is used for opinions and judgments, as in an unfavourable reaction, and for circumstances or results that make success difficult, as in unfavourable weather or unfavourable consequences. The word is formal and neutral rather than emotional, although it can sound more definite than simply saying that something is not good. In British English, its traditional spelling usually has -our, while American English generally uses unfavorable. The word is useful because it covers both a negative assessment and the practical idea of circumstances working against a person or outcome. Unlike a blunt word such as bad, it can sound measured and professional, making it appropriate for reports, academic writing, news, and formal discussion.
adjectiveExpressing disapproval or indicating that something is likely to produce a bad result. It describes opinions, conditions, circumstances, or consequences that are negative, obstructive, or disadvantageous.
- Describing an opinion, response, or judgment that is negative or disapproving.
- Describing conditions, circumstances, or consequences that are harmful, obstructive, or likely to lead to a poor result.
"The team had to postpone the match because of unfavourable weather conditions."
"The proposal received an unfavourable response from several members of the committee."
"Strong winds created unfavourable conditions for the outdoor event."
One small prefix turns a polite description into a verdict: what is favourable helps you, while what is unfavourable works against you.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unfavourable come from?
Unfavourable was formed by adding the prefix un-, meaning “not,” to favourable. Favourable entered English from French favorable, which was derived from Latin favorabilis, based on favor or favour, meaning goodwill or support. The British spelling with -our reflects the traditional British form, while American English generally uses the -or spelling.
Related word forms
How unfavourable is actually used
The word is neutral in tone but somewhat formal, and is particularly common in British English. It can describe both a negative judgment and objectively adverse circumstances.
Easily confused with unfavourable
Unfavourable is the traditional British spelling, while unfavorable is the standard American spelling; both have the same meaning and pronunciation.