Green light: meaning, definitions and examples
🟢
green light
[ ˈɡriːn laɪt ]
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
green light |
Used when approval or authorization is given for an action or project.
|
go signal |
Typically used in the context of indicating readiness to start an activity or proceed with a plan.
|
proceed signal |
Often used in technical or operational contexts to indicate that it is safe or appropriate to move forward.
|
permission indicator |
Used in formal contexts where authorization or permissions are specified or highlighted.
|
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.
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
green light |
Used when someone is given permission or the go-ahead to proceed with something.
|
approval |
Used when someone accepts or agrees to something formally or informally.
|
endorsement |
Used when someone publicly supports or recommends something or someone. Often used in marketing, politics, or to show formal support.
|
encouragement |
Used when someone is offered support or motivation to do something.
|
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
Etymology
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.