approval

/əˈpɹuːvəl/
nounIntermediate
formal

Official permission or agreement to proceed with something

The government gave approval for the new construction project.

The government officially permitted the construction project to begin.

Her parents gave their approval for the wedding.

Her parents officially agreed to the wedding.

💡

Often used in formal or bureaucratic contexts, such as legal, business, or governmental settings.

informal

A positive opinion or endorsement of something

The audience gave their approval with loud applause.

The audience showed their positive opinion with loud applause.

The critics gave the movie their approval.

The critics endorsed the movie positively.

💡

In informal contexts, approval can refer to general agreement or praise.

Collocations

give approvalto officially permit or endorse somethingseek approvalto request official permission or agreementfinal approvalthe last stage of official permission

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

approval ratingphrase
a measure of public support for a person or policy
approval processphrase
the steps required to obtain official permission

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

In formal contexts, approval often requires a formal process, such as a vote or signature. In informal contexts, it can be expressed through words, gestures, or actions.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning of 'approval' can vary significantly depending on whether it is used in a formal or informal context.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English *approve* + *-al*, from Old French *aprover*, from Latin *approbare* (to approve).

📝Usage Notes

In formal contexts, approval often requires a formal process, such as a vote or signature. In informal contexts, it can be expressed through words, gestures, or actions.

Word Breakdown

approve
to officially accept or agree
root
+
-al
relating to
suffix
English Dictionary