get the nod

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get the nod" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate receiving approval or permission for something. Example: "After weeks of deliberation, the project finally got the nod from the board of directors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Who will get the nod?

The Guardian - Sport

At 11 43 or so, two people get the nod.

The New York Times - Food

So: who do you think should get the nod?

The Guardian - Film

But if I get the nod I'll be ready.

The Guardian - Sport

Who would you most like to see get the nod?

The Guardian - Arts

I doubt that Nancy would get the nod.

The Guardian - Books

Most analysts expect Mr. Immelt to get the nod.

The New York Times

"It is nice to get the nod, though.

The Guardian

(Expect Allen to get the nod – many believe he could even challenge Lewis for starter's duties).

The New York Times

You fight as long as you can and maybe you get the nod".

The New York Times - Sports

Equally unknown is who will get the nod for prime minister in 2016.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get the nod" when you want to convey that someone has received approval or permission, often after a period of consideration or competition.

Common error

Avoid using "get the nod" when you mean someone is actively participating or contributing ideas. "Get the nod" implies passive receipt of approval, not active involvement.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "get the nod" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of receiving approval or permission. It's commonly used to show that a proposal, idea, or candidate has been selected or accepted, as demonstrated by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Sports

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "get the nod" signifies receiving approval or permission, often after careful consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Sports contexts, suggesting a neutral to slightly informal register. For alternatives, consider "receive approval" or "get the go-ahead". When writing, be sure to use "get the nod" to properly convey passive receipt of approval, not active participation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get the go-ahead

A more informal alternative, directly indicating that permission to proceed has been granted.

receive approval

Focuses on the act of receiving, emphasizing the outcome more than the process of granting permission.

receive the green light

Idiomatic expression indicating permission to proceed, often used in project management contexts.

obtain permission

Highlights the act of acquiring formal consent, implying a more structured process.

secure authorization

Implies a more formal and official approval, often involving legal or regulatory compliance.

gain acceptance

Emphasizes the aspect of being generally agreed upon or favorably received.

win endorsement

Implies support or recommendation, often from a prominent figure or organization.

be sanctioned

Suggests formal approval, often by an authority or governing body.

garner agreement

Highlights the process of obtaining consent from multiple parties.

attain consent

Focuses on achieving formal permission or agreement, often in legal or ethical contexts.

FAQs

What does it mean to "get the nod"?

To "get the nod" means to receive approval or permission, often after consideration or competition. It suggests that someone's proposal or candidacy has been accepted.

How can I use "get the nod" in a sentence?

You can use "get the nod" to describe receiving approval. For example: "After a lengthy review, the project finally "got the nod" from the committee."

What are some alternatives to "get the nod"?

Alternatives to "get the nod" include "receive approval", "obtain permission", or "get the go-ahead", depending on the specific context.

Is it more common to "get the nod" or "receive the nod"?

Both "get the nod" and "receive the nod" are acceptable, but "get the nod" is generally considered more idiomatic and frequently used in informal contexts.