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Definitions

approval

[uh-proo-vuhl] / əˈpru vəl /
NOUN
authorization
Synonyms
STRONGEST
blessing confirmation consent endorsement go ahead green light license mandate permission ratification recommendation sanction support
STRONG
acquiescence assent bells compliance concurrence countenance leave okay validation
WEAK
the nod
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ban condemnation denial disapproval discouragement opposition prohibition refusal veto
STRONG
disagreement dissent
WEAK
disfavor dislike hatred rejection
NOUN
good opinion
Synonyms
STRONG
PR acclaim admiration applause appreciation approbation commendation esteem favor liking praise puff regard respect strokes stroking wow
WEAK
pat on the back pat on the head pumping up
Antonyms
STRONG
blame censure criticism disapproval dislike disregard disrespect hate hatred neglect
WEAK
disfavor opposition refusal rejection

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s approval rating has plunged along with economic growth expectations.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

At his press conference, Trump referred to his executive order as a “first step” and said subsequent action would need congressional approval.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

A president with 70%-plus approval ratings now faces some wrenching decisions.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

Saba noted that such a change to the company’s investment policy would require approval from the U.K.’s financial watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

On the screen, I can see Rabbi Gold, following along and nodding his approval.

From "Linked" by Gordon Korman

Vocabulary lists containing approval

Face It: Selfie Vocab

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for October 9–October 15, 2021

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Catching Fire

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!