return the favor

idiom

: to do something the same or similar in return for something done

He treats them well, and they return the favor.

Examples of return the favor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Best of all, fragrant herbs keep destructive insects away from zinnia flowers, and zinnias return the favor by attracting predatory insects that feed on herb pests. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2025

Your body and brain will appreciate the reset, and your well-being and serenity will return the favor. —Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025

In walks Plaza and Shannon, scowling at random members of the Salty Club — who return the favor with an eye roll. —Rachel Raposas, People.com, 7 Feb. 2025

During his aforementioned shooting slump, Jović expressed gratitude for teammates carrying him on offense and hoped to return the favor by being more efficient on that end. —James Jackson, The Athletic, 24 Feb. 2025

Rhymes for return the favor

• aver
• braver
• craver
• favour
• flavor
• flavour
• graver
• paver
• quaver
• raver
• saver
• savor