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Approve Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘
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approve

[ษ™หˆpruหv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

formal

To officially agree to or accept something, often with some conditions or modifications.

Synonyms

authorize, endorse, ratify, sanction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
approve

When you want to express agreement or acceptance. Often used in general situations like agreeing with a proposal or plan.

  • The committee approved the new budget.
  • I approve of your decision to go back to school.
endorse

When you want to publicly or officially support someone or something. Often used in marketing, politics, or formal recommendations.

  • The celebrity endorsed the new product.
  • The senator endorsed the new policy.
authorize

When you want to give formal permission or power to someone to do something. Typically used in official or legal contexts.

  • The manager authorized the release of funds.
  • Only the principal can authorize school trips.
sanction

When you want to give official permission or approval, but it can also mean imposing a penalty or punishment in a legal or governmental context. Has a dual meaning and can carry negative connotations.

  • The government sanctioned the building of the new dam.
  • The UN imposed sanctions on the country for its actions.
ratify

When you want to express official approval with a formal confirmation, particularly in legal, diplomatic, or governmental situations.

  • The treaty was ratified by all member states.
  • The parliament will ratify the new amendment next week.

Examples of usage

  • I will approve the budget only if the proposed changes are made.
  • The committee approved the new policy unanimously.
  • She approved the final draft of the report after some minor revisions.
Context #2 | Verb

informal

To think that something is good, satisfactory, or acceptable.

Synonyms

agree with, endorse, like, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
approve

Use this when officially agreeing to or accepting something, often in formal settings such as work or legal situations.

  • The board of directors will approve the budget next week.
  • The manager has to approve your vacation request.
endorse

Use this in formal situations when publicly showing support for something or someone, often in marketing or political contexts.

  • Several celebrities endorse this new health product.
  • The senator decided to endorse the new legislation.
support

Use this when actively helping or backing someone or something, often in both formal and informal contexts.

  • We should support local businesses during this tough time.
  • I fully support your decision to go back to school.
agree with

Use this when showing that you have the same opinion or feeling as someone else, often in everyday conversations.

  • I totally agree with your point about climate change.
  • Do you agree with the new company policies?
like

Use this in informal settings to show enjoyment or preference for something or someone.

  • I really like this new song.
  • Do you like the new restaurant downtown?

Examples of usage

  • I don't approve of his behavior towards his colleagues.
  • My parents don't approve of me staying out late.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Approval from others can boost self-esteem and encourage positive behavior in children.
  • Psychologically, a strong desire for approval can influence personal decision-making and social interactions.
  • Seeking approval can either foster motivation or cause anxiety, depending on the individual's mindset.

Pop Culture

  • In social media, getting likes or shares acts as a quick way of approval among users.
  • Television shows often depict characters seeking the approval of their peers or parents, showcasing the importance of acceptance.
  • Reality TV tends to amplify the approval-seeking behavior, as contestants often seek validation from judges or audiences.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often face conflicts based on the need for approval from authority figures.
  • The theme of moral approval plays a significant role in works discussing ethics and human behavior like 'Crime and Punishment.'
  • Poets have used this concept to explore the tension between societal norms and personal desires, portraying the struggle for acceptance.

Education

  • In educational environments, teachers often approve student work to encourage learning and improvement.
  • Rubrics are used in schools to provide clear standards for what is needed to gain approval on assignments.
  • The concept of 'peer approval' is essential in group projects, where collaboration and feedback can lead to better outcomes.

Origin of 'approve'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'approbฤre,' meaning 'to test' or 'to approve.'
  • Originally, it functioned in English as 'approven' before evolving into its current form.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century, reflecting social agreements and endorsements.

The word 'approve' originated from the Latin word 'approbare', which means 'to regard as good'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving over time to its current definition of giving official consent or agreement.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,713, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.