expression of approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of approval" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where you want to indicate that someone is showing their agreement or support for something. For example, "Her nod was an expression of approval for the proposal." Alternative expressions include "show of approval" and "indication of approval."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The chef, a colored man, was gratified at their expression of approval, & readily explained his formula.

The New Yorker

One was that he knew the outcome was less an expression of approval for the challenger than a rejection of the incumbent.

The New York Times

To use an expression of approval common in south London: 'It 'ain't 'alf bad.' © Graham Swift Last Orders opens on 11 January.

The Guardian - Film

But at the moment we don't know if the post was simply an expression of approval or praise for the Islamic State's leader or activities, or a full pledge of allegiance, a bayat.

The Guardian

The Portland Cement Association, which represents the industry, said it welcomed the new environmental rule — a rare expression of approval for regulatory action by a Democratic administration.

The New York Times - Science

He was the first president since Dwight D Eisenhower to serve two full terms in office, and the election of his vice-president as his successor may be taken as the electorate's expression of approval.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

So are the constant expressions of approval that he needs.

The New Yorker

Throughout, he got applause and expressions of approval.

The New York Times

Tradition-based societies depend largely on communal expressions of approval or disapproval.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Expressions of approval are not permitted by the galleries," said Senator Mary L. Landrieu, the acting president, and Mr. Byrd nodded his head in assent and strode away.

The New York Times

Emotivists deny that moral utterances are cognitive, holding that they consist in emotional expressions of approval or disapproval and that the nature of moral reasoning and justification must be reinterpreted to take this essential characteristic of moral utterances into account.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expression of approval" to formally acknowledge agreement or satisfaction, especially in professional or academic contexts. For informal settings, consider alternatives like "thumbs up" or "nod of assent".

Common error

Avoid using "expression of approval" in casual conversations where simpler terms like "okay" or "sounds good" would be more appropriate. Using formal language in informal contexts can sound unnatural or forced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of approval" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it's used to denote the act or instance of conveying positive sentiment or agreement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expression of approval" is a grammatically sound and relatively formal phrase used to denote the act of conveying positive sentiment or agreement. While Ludwig AI identifies its usage as correct, its formality means it's more appropriate for professional, news, and formal contexts rather than casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "thumbs up" or "nod of assent" for informal settings. Its frequency is uncommon, but authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian demonstrate its proper application across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sign of endorsement

Focuses on the act of publicly supporting something.

gesture of support

Highlights the act of offering help or encouragement.

act of validation

Emphasizes confirming or establishing the legitimacy of something.

token of acceptance

Stresses acknowledging and willingly receiving something or someone.

manifestation of agreement

Highlights an outward sign showing consensus or accord.

thumbs up

An informal expression of approval or agreement, often non-verbal.

nod of assent

A physical action indicating agreement or permission.

green light

Implies authorization or permission to proceed.

seal of acceptance

Indicates that something has been officially approved or recognized.

pat on the back

Indicates praise or approval, often after a successful achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "expression of approval" in a sentence?

You can use "expression of approval" to show agreement or satisfaction. For example, "The company's decision was met with widespread "expressions of approval" from its employees".

What are some alternatives to "expression of approval"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "sign of endorsement", "gesture of support", or "act of validation".

Is "expression of approval" formal or informal?

"Expression of approval" is generally considered a formal phrase. For informal situations, consider using simpler alternatives like "thumbs up" or "nod of assent".

What's the difference between "expression of approval" and "show of approval"?

Both phrases are similar, but "expression of approval" emphasizes the communication or conveyance of agreement, while "show of approval" implies a more demonstrative or visible display of support.