Approving: meaning, definitions and examples

Expressing favorable opinion or acceptance. Often used in personal or informal settings.

• Her approving smile made me feel confident about my decision.
• The teacher gave an approving nod as I presented my project.

To publicly or officially support someone or something, often used in advertising, politics, or formal recommendations.

• The celebrity endorsed the new brand of sneakers.
• Several companies have endorsed the new policy changes.

Grant official permission or power to do something, usually in formal or legal contexts.

• The manager authorized the expenditure for the new equipment.
• Only the director can authorize access to confidential files.

To officially approve or allow something, but it can also mean to impose penalties or punishments, depending on the context. It is important to be aware of its dual meaning.

• The council sanctioned the new development project.
• The government imposed economic sanctions on the country for its actions.

To confirm or validate something officially, often used in the context of treaties, agreements, or legislation.

• The treaty was ratified by all the member states.
• The board of directors will ratify the new strategic plan next week.

Used when expressing positive judgment or feelings about something.

• She gave me an approving nod after seeing my work.
• His approving smile made her feel confident.

Used when two or more parties have a mutual understanding or shared opinion.

• After a long discussion, they finally reached an agreement.
• Their agreement on the terms was essential for the project's success.

Used when someone is allowed to do something, often implying formal approval from an authority figure.

• You need permission from the principal to leave the school early.
• He asked for his boss's permission to take a day off.

Used when publicly supporting or recommending something or someone, often in a commercial or political context.

• The product received a celebrity endorsement.
• Her endorsement of the candidate helped boost his campaign.

Used when giving permission for something to happen, usually implying a personal or formal agreement.

• He gave his consent to the medical procedure.
• You need parental consent to go on the field trip.