concerned for approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "concerned for approval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's desire or need for validation or acceptance from others. Example: "She was always concerned for approval, seeking praise from her peers in every project she undertook."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Most agreements require that airlines operating the same routes consult among themselves before submitting their fares to the two governments concerned for approval, and many agreements specify the International Air Transport Association (IATA), an association of airlines, as the organ for such consultations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is an existing regulatory guideline for clinical trials, but if pharmaceutical companies wish to make use of existing tissue samples, they have to approach the institution concerned for approval".

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It might seem strange to think of someone in power for 18 years as either president or prime minister, widely seen as an authoritarian who wants to be president for life, as someone concerned about approval ratings.

The Washington Post

Repeatedly accused (unjustly) of not being sufficiently concerned about drug safety, regulators keep raising the bar for approval, especially for innovative, high-tech products.

The New York Times

Prior to trade negotiations with other countries, DTN is required to consult concerned stakeholders, organize public hearings and submit the framework for negotiations to parliament for approval.

Health Policy and Planning

for approval.

The New Yorker

Others argued for approval.

The New York Times

The project is up for approval.

The New York Times

In 1995, AquaBounty formally applied for approval.

The New York Times

It took six months for approval.

The New York Times

But applying for approval is still burdensome.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "concerned for approval", consider the context. It can imply insecurity if overused, so balance its use with expressions of self-assurance where appropriate.

Common error

Avoid framing characters solely around their need for approval. This can make them seem shallow or lacking in agency. Give them intrinsic motivations and values to balance their desire for external validation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "concerned for approval" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun (often a person) to describe their state of being. It indicates that the individual's actions or thoughts are influenced by a desire for the acceptance or validation of others. Ludwig examples show how it describes a state of worry or attentiveness regarding others' opinions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "concerned for approval" is a grammatically sound and understandable phrase used to describe someone who is attentive to or worried about gaining acceptance or validation from others. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, the phrase is relatively rare. It's most commonly found in news, science, and formal business contexts. When using the phrase, be mindful of the potential implications of insecurity and consider balancing its use with expressions of self-assurance. Alternatives like "seeking validation" or "desiring acceptance" can provide similar meanings with slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seeking validation

Focuses on the active pursuit of validation rather than a passive concern.

desiring acceptance

Emphasizes the wish for acceptance, a more emotional need.

wanting endorsement

Highlights the need for formal approval or support.

needing affirmation

Underscores the requirement for positive reinforcement of one's actions or ideas.

craving validation

Implies a strong, almost addictive need for approval.

yearning for acceptance

Conveys a deep longing for acceptance, often in a social context.

soliciting endorsement

Suggests actively seeking out endorsement or support.

worried about acceptance

Shifts the focus to anxiety regarding whether one will be accepted.

dependent on validation

Highlights a reliance on external validation for self-worth.

motivated by approval

Emphasizes that approval acts as a primary motivator.

FAQs

How can I use "concerned for approval" in a sentence?

You can use "concerned for approval" to describe someone who is anxious about gaining acceptance from others. For example: "She was always concerned for approval, seeking praise from her peers."

What are some alternatives to "concerned for approval"?

Some alternatives include "seeking validation", "desiring acceptance", or "wanting endorsement", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to be "concerned for approval"?

Not necessarily. While excessive concern for approval can indicate insecurity, a healthy awareness of how your actions affect others is a sign of social intelligence. The key is to balance it with self-assurance and intrinsic motivation.

What's the difference between "concerned for approval" and "seeking attention"?

"Concerned for approval" focuses on gaining validation or acceptance, while "seeking attention" is broader and can include any behavior aimed at drawing notice to oneself, regardless of whether it leads to approval.