APPROVAL Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

approval

noun

ə-ˈprü-vəl

Definition of approval

as in favor

an acceptance of something as satisfactory does this poster I made for the recital meet with your approval?

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of approval Raisers are given approval to take their puppies to class, across campus, into every building and to events. — Patricia Babcock McGraw Outkick, FOXNews.com, 4 Sep. 2026 Meanwhile, approvals for asylum in immigration courts have also hit a record low. — Ximena Bustillo, NPR, 4 Sep. 2026 The agreement awaits an approval vote from the Coastal Commission, which is set for Thursday. — Jack Flemming, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026 There’s paperwork and approvals, and at the end of the day, the compliance team can just say no. — Jason Kurtz, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for approval

Recent Examples of Synonyms for approval

Noun

Recent polling handed Sand a slight edge over Lahn, with Emerson College Polling showing a 49%-46% split in the Democrat’s favor.

— Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 8 Sep. 2026
Combining advances in modern medicine with thoughtful preparation helps stack the odds in your favor so that, just as every Oregon Trail player hoped, everyone in the party makes it to the end.

— Elaine Reno, The Conversation, 8 Sep. 2026

Definition of favor

Noun

The team was slated for elimination under funding cuts for the upcoming fiscal year, following the approbation of a $9 billion budget, outlining $57 million in cuts to general fund departments, through a 4-1 vote on June 10.

— Reeti Malhotra, Sacbee.com, 14 July 2026
This too is greeted with collective approbation; everyone recognizes that this is the right thing to do.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 16 June 2026

Definition of approbation

Noun

Throughout our conversation, in fact, the pair chuckles, nods along to each other’s answers, interjects sounds of assent.

— Matt Brennan, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2026
The Provisional Government has not assumed a republican or other constitutional form, but has remained a mere executive council or oligarchy, set up without the assent of the people.

— Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of assent

Noun

Additionally, the party alleged Tupone ran as a Green candidate to siphon votes from Brooks.

— Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2026
Serbia is formally seeking European Union entry but the effort has been stalled under Vucic due to democratic backsliding, including election irregularities in previous votes.

— ABC News, ABC News, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of vote

Noun

But eight other teams received at least one nod, and bear in mind that last year’s picks favored the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs — while not a single staffer pegged the eventual champion Seahawks.

— The Athletic NFL Staff, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
The title track, a celebration of femininity and a nod to ’90s shoegaze and alt-dance music, touts a lovely video with Nicole Kidman.

— Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 9 Sep. 2026

Definition of nod

Noun

The same investments that improve energy security can lower consumer costs, reduce emissions, strengthen industrial capacity and support growth.

— Nana Menya Ayensu, semafor.com, 7 Sep. 2026
Modern submarine programmes involve sophisticated engineering, propulsion, sensors, communications, combat systems and long-term industrial support.

— Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 7 Sep. 2026

Definition of support

Noun

League officials said the Clippers violated salary cap rules by initiating off-court income opportunities and facilitating endorsement agreements for Kawhi Leonard, who was also fined $700,000.

— Ashley Mowreader, NBC news, 5 Sep. 2026
Serena’s net worth is estimated at $400 million, while Venus has over $50 million to her name built through prize money, endorsements, and investments.

— Preston Fore, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2026