Final answer:
A favorable variance occurs when actual revenue is greater than budgeted revenue or actual expenses are less than budgeted expenses, indicating better-than-expected financial performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
A favorable variance refers to a situation in which actual results are better than the expected, or budgeted, results. Specifically, a favorable variance in terms of revenue occurs when Actual Revenue > Budgeted Revenue, meaning that the company has earned more money than planned. Similarly, a favorable variance in expenses happens when Actual Expense < Budgeted Expense, meaning the company has spent less money than it had projected in its budget. This concept is a critical aspect of financial analysis and budget management.