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
Wanting to return the favor, Katie surprised Lexi with a special treat.
—
John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Apr. 2025
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
See All Example Sentences for return the favor
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.
John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Apr. 2025
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
See All Example Sentences for return the favor
Cite this Entry
“Return the favor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/return%20the%20favor. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share