approve
verb (transitive)
UK/əˈpruːv/US/əˈpruv/
To believe or think well of someone or something; to have a favorable opinion.
Example Sentences
I approve of her decision to pursue higher education.
They approve of his dedication and hard work.
Do you approve of the changes she made to the project?
He does not approve of smoking in public places.
We all approve of the new team member's positive attitude.
She approves of his efforts to improve the company's performance.
The parents approve of their child's participation in the extracurricular activities.
The manager approves of employees taking short breaks to maintain productivity.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
To give formal consent or agreement to something.“Approve” typically means giving an official or personal green light to a proposal, document, or action. In professional settings, for example, a manager might approve a budget or a supervisor might approve a time-off request. In more personal contexts, family members or friends might show approval of someone’s decision or lifestyle choice by verbally endorsing it or offering supportive feedback.In essence, to approve something is to acknowledge it as acceptable or correct—either morally, legally, or practically. Governments approve laws, committees approve plans, and bosses approve schedules. The process often involves reviewing details before deciding, ensuring that what’s being considered meets certain standards or expectations. Once approved, a plan can proceed without further obstacles. If approval is withheld, further justification or revisions may be required. The act of approving underscores a position of authority or trust, indicating that the approver’s judgment carries weight.
Alternatives
Depending on context, you might substitute “authorize,” “endorse,” or “sign off on,” especially if pointing to a formal or legal sense. “Authorize” underscores that the individual granting approval has the authority to permit an action (like signing legal documents). “Endorse” often indicates public or personal support, such as endorsing a candidate or a product. “Sign off on” fits more casual or internal business scenarios, highlighting a final go-ahead. Meanwhile, “okay” is an informal way to express giving permission—like “The supervisor okayed our project changes.” Each word captures a similar idea but can differ in tone and formality.
Writing
When writing about “approve,” specify who is granting approval and for what. For instance, “The board approved the new strategic initiative,” or “The principal must approve each student’s application.” In formal or business documents, indicate any requirements or conditions attached to the approval—“The budget was approved contingent upon cost reductions in Q3.” Clarity about these conditions helps avoid misunderstandings, ensuring readers grasp the scope and limitations of the approval.In a narrative piece, “approve” might illustrate a pivotal moment: “She felt relief wash over her when her mentor finally approved of her ambitious plan.” This reveals emotional stakes, focusing on the impact that another’s positive judgment can have on a character. In research or academic contexts, referencing approval from an ethics committee or editor likewise underscores a key step that validates the work.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, you might say, “My parents approved of my college choice,” reflecting that they support your decision. Or you might text a coworker, “Did the boss approve our request for new laptops?” The phrase “get the nod” or “get the thumbs-up” informally captures the same idea. If you want to lighten the mood, you can say, “It’s official—my cat approved of our new couch by sleeping on it,” humorously granting the cat a role of authority.Friends might also discuss approvals in lighthearted ways—“I hope they approve my vacation request soon; I need that break.” Or “My roommate has to approve any decorations I put in the living room.” Even though “approve” implies some measure of formal authority, it can surface in ordinary interactions where agreement or sign-off is necessary to move forward. Regardless of setting, “approve” signals an acceptance that something is okay to proceed or that it meets expected standards.
Etymology
“Approve” traces back to the Late Latin “approbare,” which combines “ad-” (meaning “to”) and “probare” (“to test” or “to prove”). In early usage, it implied judging something worthy or valid after thorough consideration—essentially testing it before deciding. Middle English adopted this sense, morphing into “approve,” emphasizing formal endorsement or acceptance. Over time, the term extended beyond strict legality or proof, covering all instances of giving support, permission, or agreement. Today, “approve” stands as a core concept in bureaucratic procedures, corporate settings, and everyday decisions, consistently reflecting the notion of endorsing or validating someone else’s idea, request, or action.