verb · B2

Approve

uh-PROOV/əˈpruːv/

To approve is to officially agree to a plan, or to think something is good. Approve a plan (no of) is the official sense; approve of a person or habit is the opinion sense. Allow is everyday for permission; agree is broader. Approval is the noun; approved is the adjective. In speech, say yes to or I am happy with is more natural. Do not drop of when you mean moral or personal liking (“I approve him” is wrong).

Meaning

To officially agree to a plan, or to think that something is good.

Examples

“The committee approved the new timetable.”
“The board approved the new timetable on Tuesday.”
“Her parents did not approve of the gap year, but they did not block it.”

Good to know

approve a plan (official). approve of + person/habit (opinion). Noun: approval. Everyday: say yes / be happy with.

Near in meaning

authorise

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