Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Ratify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“
Add to dictionary

ratify

[หˆrรฆtษชหŒfaษช ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

law

To ratify means to approve or confirm a decision or agreement, making it officially valid and binding.

Synonyms

approve, confirm, endorse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
ratify

Typically used in legal, political, or formal settings to denote the final approval of treaties, amendments, or agreements after they have been initially negotiated.

  • The government needs to ratify the treaty before it becomes effective.
  • The board of directors will ratify the new company policy next week.
approve

Used in everyday settings to express general acceptance or permission for an action, idea, or plan. It can also be used formally, but it is less specific than 'ratify'.

  • My parents need to approve of my vacation plans.
  • The budget was approved without any major changes.
confirm

Often used to verify or formally acknowledge the accuracy or truth of something. It is also used in business and communication to acknowledge receipt or agreement.

  • Please confirm your attendance at the meeting by Friday.
  • The lab tests confirmed the doctor's diagnosis.
endorse

Commonly used to express public or formal support for a person, product, or idea. It is often used in marketing and politics.

  • The celebrity agreed to endorse the new product line.
  • Several politicians have endorsed the new policy.

Examples of usage

  • The treaty was ratified by all participating countries.
  • The board of directors voted to ratify the new policy.
Context #2 | Verb

politics

In politics, ratify refers to the process of formally approving a treaty or agreement, often involving a vote or official declaration.

Synonyms

approve, confirm, endorse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
ratify

Ratify is used in formal and legal contexts, especially in relation to treaties, agreements, or laws that require official approval by a governing body. It often refers to the final consent given by an authoritative entity.

  • The nations met to ratify the climate change agreement.
  • The board of directors decided to ratify the new company policy.
approve

Approve is a more general term used in everyday and formal contexts when giving consent or permission for plans, proposals, or actions. It doesnโ€™t necessarily imply a legal or formal process.

  • The teacher approved the student's project idea.
  • The manager approved the budget for the next quarter.
confirm

Confirm is used to verify or validate information, decisions, or appointments. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, indicating that something is definite or true.

  • Please confirm your attendance at the meeting.
  • The committee confirmed the appointment of the new CEO.
endorse

Endorse is typically used in contexts where support or approval is being publicly declared, often in relation to products, services, or policies. It often involves a figure of authority or recognition.

  • The president endorsed the new healthcare policy.
  • Celebrities often endorse products in advertisements.

Examples of usage

  • The Senate voted to ratify the trade agreement with the neighboring country.
  • The president signed the bill, ratifying the international convention.

Translations

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

Origin of 'ratify'

The word 'ratify' originated from the Latin word 'ratificare,' which means 'to confirm.' The concept of ratification has been essential in legal and political contexts throughout history, ensuring that decisions and agreements are officially recognized and enforced. Over time, the process of ratifying treaties and policies has evolved to involve formal procedures and mechanisms for approval.

See also: rat, ratchet, rats.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,035, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.