a note of approbation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a note of approbation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing approval or praise for someone's actions or achievements. Example: "The committee issued a note of approbation for her outstanding contributions to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Pugliucci closes on a note of approbation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A note of humility?

The New York Times

(The name is a pun on "def," a term of approbation in hip-hop, and "tone deaf").

The New Yorker

"Fantastic," Szmura said with a snort of approbation.

The New Yorker

We are skeptical that he will be able to turn it into a term of approbation.

The New York Times

Even a trip to an utterly abhorrent regime need not be a sign of approbation.

The New York Times - Magazine

There is a reason that 'uncompromising' is a term of approbation".

The New York Times

Beauty is a feeling of approbation, and an original, simple impression of the mind.

SEP

According to moral sentimentalism, an action is morally right (wrong) if and only if some observer of the action has a sentiment of approbation (disapprobation) concerning it.

SEP

Through their social relationships, individuals seek the approval or respect of others and typically desire to achieve a position of approbation in the social group to which they belong.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Again from the gathering came a chorus of approbation.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a note of approbation" when you want to convey a formal or slightly elevated tone of approval. It's suitable for contexts where a simple "good job" would be insufficient.

Common error

Avoid using "a note of approbation" in casual settings or everyday conversations. Its formality can sound stilted or pretentious in informal situations. Opt for simpler expressions of approval instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a note of approbation" functions as a noun phrase. It signifies a formal expression of approval or commendation, often delivered in writing. Ludwig AI's examples confirm this, showcasing its use in contexts where explicit approval is being conveyed.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a note of approbation" is a noun phrase used to express formal approval or commendation. Ludwig AI confirms that it functions to acknowledge and reinforce positive actions or qualities. It carries a formal register, making it suitable for academic, scientific, or business settings, as demonstrated by its presence in sources like The New York Times and Britannica. While grammatically correct, its usage is relatively rare, suggesting it should be reserved for contexts where a formal tone is desired. Alternatives include "a sign of approval" or "a word of commendation" for similar but potentially less formal expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sign of approval

Focuses on the act of showing approval, rather than a written or spoken expression.

a gesture of praise

Emphasizes the act as a form of commendation or admiration.

a word of commendation

Highlights a specific expression of praise, often brief.

a token of endorsement

Suggests a more formal or official sign of support.

an expression of praise

A broader term encompassing various ways to convey admiration.

a favorable mention

Highlights a positive acknowledgment or reference.

a positive review

Specific to evaluations, often in professional or artistic settings.

a thumbs up

A casual, non-verbal sign of agreement or approval.

a pat on the back

An informal expression of encouragement or approval.

a nod of recognition

Emphasizes acknowledgment and validation of effort or achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "a note of approbation" in a sentence?

You can use "a note of approbation" to express formal approval. For example: "The manager sent "a note of approbation" for the team's successful project completion".

What phrases are similar to "a note of approbation"?

Similar phrases include "a sign of approval", "a gesture of praise", or "a word of commendation", each conveying slightly different nuances of approval.

Is it appropriate to use "a note of approbation" in casual conversations?

No, "a note of approbation" is generally too formal for casual conversations. Simpler expressions like "good job" or "well done" are more suitable.

What is the difference between "a note of approbation" and "a sign of approval"?

"A note of approbation" implies a more formal, often written, expression of approval, while "a sign of approval" can be any indication of agreement or positive regard, verbal or non-verbal.