Obtain approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Obtain approval" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of seeking permission or consent for a particular action or decision. Example: "Before proceeding with the project, we need to obtain approval from the management team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We have reminded faculty of the necessity to obtain approval for all changes to approved protocols," the university said.

The New York Times

The chief investigator will submit and, where necessary, obtain approval for all substantial amendments to the original approved documents.

BMJ Open

"Lam failed to request the appropriate waiver or obtain approval".

The New York Times

Verizon must still obtain approval from the Federal Communications Commission and several state regulators.

The New York Times

Insurers were forbidden, for example, to require members to obtain approval before seeking care.

The New York Times - Health

Officials from the utility said they expected to obtain approval by spring of 2002.

The New York Times

Players need to obtain approval from the athletic department before getting an off-campus job.

The New Yorker

"They complained that we had failed to obtain approval from the commission," Mr. Anderson said.

The New York Times

More important, British Telecom must first obtain approval from regulators before it can revamp.

The New York Times

Bristol-Myers said it would consider all available options to obtain approval for UFT in the United States.

The New York Times

Moreover, delays of two to five years to obtain approval from the Food and Drug Administration only compounded the problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Obtain approval", clearly specify from whom the approval is needed. For example, "Obtain approval from the manager" is more specific than simply "Obtain approval."

Common error

Avoid using "obtains approval" when a plural subject is involved. Instead, use "obtain approval". For example, "They obtain approval" is correct, while "They obtains approval" is incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Obtain approval" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence or clause. It expresses the action of seeking and receiving permission or authorization for a specific action or decision. This is supported by the Ludwig AI examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Obtain approval" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of getting permission or authorization for something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It is frequently found in news, scientific, and business contexts. While alternatives like "secure approval" or "gain consent" exist, "Obtain approval" remains a standard and versatile choice. When using this phrase, it's important to specify who is granting the approval to ensure clarity. Avoiding subject-verb agreement errors is also crucial for proper usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Secure approval

Focuses on the act of successfully getting approval.

Gain consent

Implies getting agreement or permission from someone.

Receive authorization

Highlights the act of being granted authority.

Get the green light

An idiomatic expression for receiving permission to proceed.

Acquire permission

Emphasizes the process of obtaining permission.

Procure endorsement

Suggests acquiring formal support or agreement.

Obtain clearance

Indicates getting official permission to proceed, often after a security check.

Seek authorization

Emphasizes the act of actively requesting permission.

Request endorsement

Highlights the formal request for support or approval.

Apply for permission

Focuses on the act of submitting a request for authorization.

FAQs

How can I use "Obtain approval" in a sentence?

You can use "Obtain approval" when you need permission or authorization for something. For example: "Before starting the project, we must "obtain approval" from the stakeholders."

What are some alternatives to "Obtain approval"?

Alternatives include "secure approval", "gain consent", or "receive authorization". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "Obtain approval" and "Get approval"?

While both phrases mean essentially the same thing, "Obtain approval" is generally considered more formal than "get approval".

Which is more appropriate in a formal setting, "Obtain approval" or "Secure approval"?

Both "Obtain approval" and "secure approval" are appropriate for formal settings. "Obtain approval" is a more general term, while "secure approval" emphasizes the successful completion of the approval process.