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approval
/əˈpɹuːvəl/
official acceptance or agreement
The project received final approval from the board.
The board officially accepted the project after reviewing it.
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
Related Phrases
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
suffixEnglish Dictionary