divine approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "divine approval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing religious or spiritual validation, endorsement, or acceptance of actions or beliefs. Example: "The community sought divine approval for their new initiative, believing it would bring them closer to their faith."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

He did not explain why divine approval kicks in only at the two-thirds mark.

The New Yorker

The authors see their astounding sales success as a mark of divine approval.

The Guardian - Books

It required people willing to risk all in pursuit of power, wealth, glory and divine approval.

The New York Times - Books

In his dialogue Euthyphro, Plato considered the suggestion that it is divine approval that makes an action good.

Britannica

It had been raining for days — the rebels called it a sign of divine approval — and now vast puddles in the muddy streets reflected an operatic evening sky, with storm clouds rolling away to reveal bright stars over the Mediterranean.

The New York Times - Magazine

In an open letter to Mr Chavez being distributed in Venezuela's churches, the bishops point out that medieval crusaders used such claims of divine approval to commit atrocities for which the pope has recently had to apologise.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

But in the context of the Word's fluid two-hour set, the moment seemed a divine sigh of approval.

The New York Times - Arts

He ascends to the throne through intrigue, as I said, there's really no indication of a divine choice or approval, but he's said to reign over a golden age.

Yale University

Mixing glitzy entertainment with down-home family values, and preaching a "prosperity gospel" which put a divine seal of approval on both the growing affluence of American evangelicals and the showy lifestyles of their television ministers, PTL quickly mushroomed into a vast corporate enterprise.

The New York Times

Maybe you were under the impression that kings didn't need to be voted for, being, as they are, elected by divine right which precludes the requirement for democratic approval?

The Guardian - Opinion

Mori's many missteps for example, he referred to Japan as a "divine country," a phrase that evoked Japan's militaristic past reduced his approval rating to an all-time low for a Japanese prime minister.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "Divine approval" implies more than just knowledge; it suggests active acceptance and support. Choose your words carefully to reflect the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid presuming "divine approval" for actions that are merely personally desired or culturally influenced. Ensure that claims of divine sanction are based on genuine theological or spiritual reasoning, not subjective interpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "divine approval" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject of a sentence. It refers to the concept of a higher power's endorsement or sanction, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples demonstrating its use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

24%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "divine approval" is a noun phrase used to express the concept of an action or belief being sanctioned by a higher power. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, academic, and encyclopedic contexts. While synonyms like "divine assent" and "heavenly blessing" exist, they offer slightly different connotations. It's crucial to use this phrase responsibly, ensuring that claims of divine sanction are well-founded and respectful of diverse perspectives. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and appropriate for use in various forms of written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divine assent

Focuses on agreement or consent from a divine entity, rather than outright approval.

gracious approval

Highlights the benevolent nature of the approval, emphasizing a merciful or kind endorsement.

divine concurrence

Emphasizes the idea of simultaneous agreement or happening with divine will.

celestial approval

Uses a more poetic or elevated term for approval, emphasizing its heavenly origin.

divine authorization

Highlights the permission or mandate aspect coming from a divine source, implying the right to act.

divine permission

Focuses specifically on the granting of allowance or consent by a divine entity.

heavenly blessing

Highlights the positive and beneficial aspect of divine favor, often implying protection or good fortune.

God's blessing

A common and direct way of referring to the favour or support from God.

divine endorsement

Implies a more explicit and public form of support or recommendation from a divine source.

sacred validation

Highlights the holy or consecrated nature of the approval, emphasizing its spiritual significance.

FAQs

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

You can use "divine approval" to describe actions or beliefs that are believed to be sanctioned by a higher power. For example, "The leader claimed "divine approval" for his decisions, citing religious texts as justification."

What's the difference between "divine approval" and "divine mandate"?

"Divine approval" suggests a general endorsement or acceptance, while "divine mandate" implies a specific command or instruction from a higher power. A mandate carries a stronger sense of obligation and authority.

Are there synonyms for "divine approval"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "divine assent", "heavenly blessing", or "celestial approval" depending on the context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "divine approval"?

It is appropriate in religious, spiritual, or philosophical discussions where the concept of a higher power's sanction is relevant. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid using it to justify actions that could be harmful or discriminatory.