Approved Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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approved

[əˈpruːvd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

formal

Having received approval or permission; sanctioned.

Synonyms

accepted, authorized, endorsed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
approved

Used when something has been officially agreed or accepted after review. Commonly used in formal or official settings like business, government, and academic environments.

  • The project proposal has been approved by the committee.
  • Your leave request has been approved.
authorized

Used when someone is given official permission or power to do something. Commonly used in contexts involving power dynamics or access control, such as legal or corporate settings.

  • Only authorized personnel are allowed to enter this area.
  • He is authorized to sign the contract on behalf of the company.
endorsed

Used when someone publicly supports or approves something, often in contexts of recommendations, promotional activities, or formal support.

  • The product is endorsed by several celebrities.
  • The politician has been endorsed by many community leaders.
accepted

Used when something is received willingly or considered satisfactory. Often used in daily life, social contexts, and informal scenarios.

  • She was accepted into the university.
  • The gift was gladly accepted by John.

Examples of usage

  • The project has finally been approved by the board of directors.
  • She is an approved candidate for the position.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

Officially agree to or accept as satisfactory.

Synonyms

authorize, endorse, ratify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
approved

Used in everyday situations to express acceptance or agreement. Commonly used in business, education, or casual conversation.

  • The manager approved the budget for the new project.
  • Her visa has been approved by the embassy.
endorse

Often used in advertising or business to indicate support or approval, especially publicly. Can also refer to supporting policies or ideas.

  • The celebrity endorsed the new product on her social media platform.
  • Several politicians endorsed the new environmental policy.
ratify

Primarily used in political or official settings to confirm or formally approve an agreement, treaty, or law.

  • The senate must ratify the treaty before it becomes legally binding.
  • The board of directors voted to ratify the changes to the bylaws.
authorize

Typically used in formal or legal contexts to grant permission or power to someone.

  • The bank authorized the transaction after verifying all the details.
  • He is authorized to sign the contract on behalf of the company.

Examples of usage

  • The committee approved the proposal unanimously.
  • The manager approved the budget for the upcoming project.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal settings, 'approved' often refers to documentation that has been checked for accuracy and signed by an authority.
  • Various government regulations require 'approved' notifications before certain projects can begin, ensuring public safety.
  • In contracts, 'approved' indicates that specific terms have been agreed upon by the involved parties.

Pop Culture

  • The approval of a book or script can lead to movie adaptations, showing how important this word is in entertainment.
  • Reality TV shows often feature judging panels that either 'approve' or 'disapprove' contestants' performances.
  • The phrase 'approved by the masses' can often boost a product’s reputation, uniting consumer trust and popularity.

Psychology

  • Receiving 'approval' from others can significantly boost self-esteem and promote positive behavior.
  • In children, the need for parental approval can influence their decisions and social development.
  • Studies have shown that social approval triggers dopamine release in the brain, making it rewarding.

Education

  • In academic settings, a project gets 'approved' after meeting certain standards, ensuring quality education.
  • Teachers often use 'approval' to encourage students, recognizing completed tasks or good behavior.
  • Curriculums require 'approved' materials that meet educational standards to facilitate effective learning.

Origin of 'approved'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'approved' comes from the Latin root 'approbare,' meaning 'to test, assess, or agree.'
  • It has been used in the English language since the 15th century, showing how decisions have always needed approval.
  • Related words in English include 'approve' and 'approbation,' which also stem from the same Latin origin.

The word 'approved' originated from the Latin word 'approbare', which means 'to prove, approve'. Over time, the term evolved to signify official acceptance or permission. It has been commonly used in legal and formal contexts to indicate authorization or endorsement.


See also: approval, approver, approving, approvingly, disapproval, disapprove, disapproved, disapproving, disapprovingly, unapproved.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,051, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.