gesture of approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gesture of approval" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a non-verbal sign indicating agreement or support. For example, "She gave a gesture of approval by nodding her head." Alternative expressions include "sign of approval" and "mark of approval."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Basque officials protested that the medal was an insulting gesture of approval for someone who had persecuted their people.

The New Yorker

Since the days of Gerald Ford, just about every Republican presidential campaign has included some symbolic gesture of approval for good old-fashioned racism.

The New York Times

They were those on boats docked just off the island — small ones, mostly, but also one large navy-blue-bellied yacht that occasionally flashed a spotlight at the stage, presumably as a gesture of approval.

The New York Times - Arts

As for the instructions on not to point, she told us that such actions - signifying a gesture of approval of the north - may be photographed to score propaganda points.

The Guardian - Travel

The award of the 2009 Stirling prize to Rogers's building was another gesture of approval for the Maggie's Centre approach, but it also raised the question of whether they really needed such star names to design them.

The Guardian - Arts

But like Pepe the Frog, its repeated association with and use by white nationalists like Richard Spencer has imbued it with a new meaning in addition to all of its other innocuous ones, making the symbol simultaneously a prank, a harmless gesture of approval and an in-joke among a wide range of right-wing personalities to anger liberals for their own amusement.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

On Wednesday, as he ate lunch at Trattoria Dell'Arte in Manhattan, he happily accepted good wishes and gestures of approval.

The New York Times

And inspiring all, emperor Marcel Duchamp gestures a thumbs-up of approval and credibility.

Huffington Post

Throughout the event, every mot juste was met with gestures of delight and approval; choice metaphors provoked eager roars; an extended rhetorical flight demanded standing ovations.

Los Angeles Times

It's a conservative county, but welcoming honks of approval are more common than the rare rude gesture.

The New York Times

Later that day in Washington, Mr. Obama paid a visit to the Japanese Embassy to sign a book of condolences — a gesture seen in the prime minister's office as a nod of approval by the American president.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific instance of approval, use "gesture of approval" to emphasize the non-verbal communication aspect.

Common error

Avoid using "gesture of approval" when a verbal confirmation or formal endorsement is more appropriate. "Gesture of approval" implies a non-verbal cue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gesture of approval" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an action or signal that indicates agreement or endorsement. Ludwig's examples illustrate how it's used to depict both symbolic and literal expressions of assent.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gesture of approval" is a useful way to describe non-verbal communication indicating agreement or support. While not extremely common, it appears consistently in news and media, as demonstrated by Ludwig. Understanding its nuances, such as its distinction from more formal endorsements like a "seal of approval", is key to using it effectively. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and conveys a clear meaning in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nod of agreement

Specific non-verbal cue indicating agreement.

seal of approval

Implies official authorization or endorsement.

expression of support

Emphasizes the act of showing agreement or advocacy.

sign of endorsement

Focuses on the act of officially supporting or recommending something.

indication of consent

Focuses on the agreement or permission given.

thumbs-up

Informal, non-verbal cue indicating approval or satisfaction.

token of acceptance

Highlights the act of receiving or acknowledging something positively.

pat on the back

Informal gesture indicating congratulations or approval.

mark of affirmation

Highlights a symbol or sign confirming something.

act of validation

Stresses the confirmation or affirmation of something's worth.

FAQs

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

You can use "gesture of approval" to describe a non-verbal indication of agreement or support. For example, "She gave a "gesture of approval" by nodding her head".

What are some alternatives to "gesture of approval"?

Alternatives include "sign of endorsement", "token of acceptance", or "expression of support", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "gesture of approval" and "nod of approval"?

"Nod of approval" is a specific type of "gesture of approval". The latter is broader and can encompass various non-verbal cues beyond just a nod.

When is it appropriate to use "gesture of approval" instead of "seal of approval"?

"Seal of approval" implies an official endorsement or authorization, whereas ""gesture of approval"" refers to a non-verbal indication of agreement or support that may not be formal.