approbation

USAGE SUMMARY

"approbation" is a perfectly valid and usable word in written English.
Generally, it is used to express approval or admiration for something. For example, "The teacher gave their student a look of approbation for correctly solving the equation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

10 20: I have to say, something about the truncated nomination by mass approbation makes me long for the days of cigar-smoke-filled back room intrigue.

The Economist

If Mr Obama's actions really do defy the people's will, Republicans will be in an unparalleled position to undo those actions by passing a law, and to reap the popular approbation that follows.

The Economist

It would be a pity if amidst the turmoil of current American affairs President Roosevelt's inaugural address received less than its dire approbation.

The Economist

The first was the power of the Russian forces already legitimately stationed in Crimea (it is not only home to Russia's Black Sea Fleet there are several other military bases scattered across the peninsula); the second was the approbation of the ethnically and culturally Russian population in Crimea, which has longed to regain its place as part of the Soviet empire.

The Economist

Some analysts interpret the absence of plagues of boils and frogs as approbation; others point out that He moves in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform.

The Economist

It is urging Zimbabwe's friends to keep pressing the government to ensure that the election is fair and free of intimidation.Mr Mugabe has a second weakness, which may make this possible: he also wants the approbation of the Commonwealth.

The Economist

"Be hearty in approbation and lavish in praise," Carnegie advised.

The Economist

India managed to expel the intruders without crossing into Pakistani territory, winning world sympathy in the process.Now parts of India's establishment seem to be arguing that Pakistan's nukes and a desire for world approbation should not inhibit India's response to provocation.

The Economist

America's aristocrats are unelected, irremovable; their standing depends not on popular approbation, but on the power of their thought.The aristocrats, of course, are the nine Supreme Court justices, who last month issued a barrage of philosophic rulings before their annual three-month recess.

The Economist

That is something that society can produce inexpensively; and the approbation that ordinary citizens can produce costs them no more than it costs the rich.

The Economist

Tony Blair speaks French, and has earned great approbation by doing so in France confirming the view that French surliness towards the British evaporates if the latter make a little effort.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "approbation" when you want to convey a sense of formal approval, often by an authority or a group. It's stronger than simple approval and implies considered judgment.

Common error

Avoid using "approbation" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler words like "approval" or "praise" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "approbation" is that of a noun, representing the act of approving or the state of being approved. It typically functions as a subject or object within a sentence, indicating that something has received official or formal approval. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "approbation" is a noun that signifies formal approval or commendation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, especially in news, scientific, and business contexts. While it can be used to convey strong approval, remember to avoid it in casual contexts where simpler terms like "approval" or "praise" might be more appropriate. The term appears frequently in authoritative sources like The Economist and Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, highlighting its use in formal and academic discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

official endorsement

Focuses on formal approval, often by an authority.

favorable recognition

Highlights the positive acknowledgment received.

positive sanction

Emphasizes authorization and approval.

public commendation

Stresses the open expression of praise.

hearty approval

Indicates enthusiastic and genuine agreement.

high praise

Focuses on the intensity of the positive feedback.

warm consent

Highlights agreement given with enthusiasm.

positive regard

Emphasizes the respect and appreciation felt.

favorable opinion

Focuses on a positive assessment or judgment.

validation

Highlights the act of confirming or supporting something.

FAQs

How can I use "approbation" in a sentence?

"Approbation" is used to express approval or praise. For example, "The project received the team's full approbation" or "She sought the approbation of her peers".

What's the difference between "approbation" and "approval"?

"Approbation" is a stronger and more formal term than "approval". "Approbation" suggests a considered and often official endorsement, while "approval" can be more general.

Are there any synonyms for "approbation"?

Yes, some synonyms for "approbation" include "endorsement", "commendation", "sanction", and "praise". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "approbation" a commonly used word?

While not an everyday word, "approbation" is frequently used in formal writing, academic texts, and news articles, as shown by Ludwig.