Synonyms for

Approve

Verb / ʌˈpru:v / Another word for approve — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to have a favorable opinion of; to agree to; to accept as satisfactory

Synonyms & similar words

disapprove okay sanction ok endorse sanction ratify support back authorize permit allow consent agreed confirm affirm bless commend countenance like ok pass recommend uphold

Synonyms by register

Formal

endorse sanction ratify authorize validate

Informal

okay go for it give the thumbs up green light

Literary

sanction countenance accord

Antonyms

disapprove reject deny refuse veto oppose condemn

Common collocations

  • approve of something
  • approve a budget
  • approve a plan
  • approve a proposal
  • seek approval
  • gain approval
  • give approval
  • officially approve

Word family

noun approval
verb approve
adjective approving
adverb approvingly

Usage note

While 'approve' can be used transitively (e.g., 'approve the budget'), it is often used with the preposition 'of' (e.g., 'approve of his actions').

Example sentences

  1. I approve of your hard work.
  2. The committee will approve the budget.
  3. The teacher will approve the final draft of your essay.
  4. I need to approve this project before it can commence.
  5. The bank will approve your loan application.

Quotes

  • I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.
  • I don't need anyone's approval to be happy.
  • I refuse to accept other people's ideas of happiness for me. As if there's a 'one size fits all' standard for happiness.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words