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 Those same experts suggested that even with permanent approval, long-term oil drilling in the region also could be a high-stakes gamble. — Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 9 Aug. 2026 The company is targeting entry into service after regulatory approval, currently expected in 2028. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 9 Aug. 2026 Cox said this weighs most heavily on young people, for whom peer approval matters most. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 9 Aug. 2026 According to figures compiled for this story, some 330,735 Haitian nationals had received TPS approval in the United States as of March 31, though advocates say that the universe of people affected extends well beyond that official number. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 8 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for approval

Recent Examples of Synonyms for approval

Noun

Getty Images Key Facts The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Blanche’s nomination in a 10-12 vote along party lines Tuesday, with all Republicans voting in his favor and all Democrats voting against him.

— Alison Durkee, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
The porous pass rush, poor safety play and exploitable linebacking corps share some of the blame, but the cornerbacks didn’t do Washington any favors.

— Tashan Reed, Washington Post, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of favor

Noun

Lauder became synonymous with the political issue, and Bloomberg later ran for a third mayoral term only after the cosmetics heir gave his blessing.

— Alison Durkee, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026
However, color-curious homeowners might be itching to go against convention—and French gives you her blessing to think outside of the box.

— Kelsey Mulvey, Vogue, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of blessing

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

Changing the charter requires the voters’ approval via referendum, whereas passing an ordinance simply requires the affirmative vote of eight council members and the assent of the mayor.

— Joseph Landers, Baltimore Sun, 6 Aug. 2026
Rhaenyra continues to fumble her assent to the Iron Throne while Daemon pushes for more aggressive tactics to answer their enemy’s assaults.

— Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026

Definition of assent

Noun

The Senate narrowly confirmed Todd Blanche to be Attorney General by a vote of 50-49 early this morning.

— Jay O'Brien, ABC News, 8 Aug. 2026
Without unanimous support, along with the 60 votes of support needed to pass the bill, an actual vote was still being worked on from those involved.

— Trey Wallace OutKick, FOXNews.com, 8 Aug. 2026

Definition of vote

Noun

Permitting timelines which regularly extend across decades remain the real enemy of American mineral independence; leveraging what already exists is a commonsense nod to simple energy reality.

— David Blackmon, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
The nod from California Democrats means official party materials in the November election will indicate the party supports the tax.

— Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of nod

Noun

Not everyone has enough resources and support to turn to in real life, the 22-year-old said.

— ABC News, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026
The edges of your lawn and garden provide the perfect habitat for these plants, while fences and retaining walls can give support to growing poison ivy vines.

— Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Aug. 2026