Approve

Definition

Approve is a verb that means to officially agree to, accept, or endorse something. It is commonly used to express favorable judgment or consent regarding a proposal, idea, or action.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈpruv/
• Respelling: uh-PROOV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈpruːv/
• Respelling: uh-PROOV

Etymology

The word "approve" originates from the Latin "approbare," meaning "to assent to" or "to regard as good." This combines "ad-" (to) and "probare" (to test or prove). The term entered Middle English from Old French "aprover" with the sense of confirming or endorsing.

Derivatives

• Approval (noun)
• Approving (adjective/verb)
• Approvingly (adverb)
• Disapprove (verb)
• Reapprove (verb)

Synonyms

• Endorse
• Accept
• Authorize

Antonyms

• Reject
• Disapprove
• Decline

Usage

The term "approve" is frequently used in official or formal contexts where consent or endorsement is given. For example, "The committee approved the new policy," or "Her parents approved of her decision to study abroad."

Related Terms

• Acceptance: Agreement with or belief in an idea or proposal.
• Consent: Permission for something to happen.
• Endorsement: Approval or support of something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To officially agree to or accept something: Used to express favorable judgment or formal consent.
  • Example: "The board voted to approve the budget."
• To consider something as good or suitable: Indicates a personal or subjective agreement with something.
  • Example: "She did not approve of his choice of friends."