Green light: meaning, definitions and examples

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green light

 

[ ˈɡriːn laɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

traffic signal

A green light is a traffic signal that indicates it is safe to proceed or go ahead.

Synonyms

go signal, permission indicator, proceed signal

Examples of usage

  • The driver stopped at the red light and then proceeded when the green light appeared.
  • When the green light is on, pedestrians can cross the street safely.
  • The traffic flow is smoother when drivers follow the green light.
  • The green light at the intersection turned on, allowing cars to move forward.
  • The green light is a symbol of permission to continue driving.
Context #2 | Noun

approval or encouragement

A green light is a metaphorical indication of approval or encouragement to proceed with a plan or idea.

Synonyms

approval, encouragement, endorsement

Examples of usage

  • Getting a green light from the boss means we can move forward with the project.
  • The team received a green light to implement their innovative strategy.
  • After receiving the green light, the company launched the new product.
  • The positive feedback from the investors was like a green light for our expansion.
  • When the board gave the green light, the construction project started.

Translations

Translations of the word "green light" in other languages:

🇵🇹 luz verde

🇮🇳 हरी बत्ती

🇩🇪 grünes Licht

🇮🇩 lampu hijau

🇺🇦 зелена світло

🇵🇱 zielone światło

🇯🇵 青信号

🇫🇷 feu vert

🇪🇸 luz verde

🇹🇷 yeşil ışık

🇰🇷 초록불

🇸🇦 ضوء أخضر

🇨🇿 zelené světlo

🇸🇰 zelené svetlo

🇨🇳 绿灯

🇸🇮 zelena luč

🇮🇸 grænt ljós

🇰🇿 жасыл жарық

🇬🇪 მწვანე შუქი

🇦🇿 yaşıl işıq

🇲🇽 luz verde

Word origin

The term 'green light' originated from the traffic light system. It is believed to have been first used in the early 20th century when electric traffic lights were introduced. The concept of green symbolizing 'go' or 'proceed' is universal in traffic regulations. Over time, the term has been figuratively extended to represent approval, encouragement, or permission in various contexts beyond traffic control.