looking for approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking for approval" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a desire for validation or acceptance from others. Example: "She was constantly looking for approval from her peers, which affected her self-esteem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

I don't feel I'm looking for approval.

The Guardian

"How's the show going?" Grimshaw asked him, all new presenter looking for approval.

The Guardian

For his part, Mr. Giuliani may be looking for approval from Republicans outside New York.

The New York Times

I was looking for approval and praise all the time and I never got enough of it.

The Guardian - Music

But now restaurateurs are looking for approval from an altogether different sort of inspector: food safety officers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But he also stood in place and danced in Cuban heels without necessarily looking for approval, as if you'd come upon him in nature.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Garrett: We've learned not to look for approval while we're talking, or for them to nod as we go through the plot points.

The New York Times - Magazine

Every time he did something, he would look for approval to the director, the producers or the writers if they were around.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

President Bush said that he will look for approval from Congress before taking action against Iraq as the White House opened a multi-front campaign to persuade lawmakers, American allies and the public that Saddam Hussein poses a grave danger to the United States and the world.

The New York Times

I can't look for approval outside of myself.

Huffington Post

We all look for approval from our peers and family.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's motivations, use "looking for approval" to convey a desire for external validation. Be mindful of the potential negative connotations associated with excessive need for approval, such as insecurity or lack of self-confidence.

Common error

Avoid framing characters or individuals solely around their need for external approval. Instead, explore the underlying reasons for this desire and portray a more nuanced perspective of their motivations and inner conflicts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking for approval" functions as a verb phrase, often acting as part of a predicate. It describes the action of actively seeking or desiring acceptance, validation, or positive feedback from others. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

21%

Books

14%

Less common in

Forbes

7%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looking for approval" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of seeking validation or acceptance from others. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While widely used in diverse contexts, including news, media, and personal narratives, over-reliance on external validation can indicate underlying insecurities. Consider alternative phrases like "seeking validation" or "desiring recognition" for nuanced expression. Use this phrase mindfully, recognizing both its descriptive power and potential negative connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seeking validation

Focuses on the act of confirming one's worth or correctness.

desiring recognition

Emphasizes the wish to be acknowledged for one's achievements or qualities.

craving acceptance

Highlights a strong need to be included and accepted by others.

needing affirmation

Stresses the requirement for positive reinforcement and support.

soliciting praise

Implies actively asking for positive feedback.

pursuing endorsement

Suggests actively working to gain support or agreement.

wanting acknowledgment

Emphasizes the desire to have one's efforts or existence recognized.

hankering for validation

Highlights a strong desire or need for validation.

wishing for commendation

Focuses on the desire for formal praise or recognition.

expecting agreement

Implies a presumption that others will concur with one's views.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "looking for approval"?

To be "looking for approval" means seeking validation, praise, or acceptance from others for one's actions, ideas, or self-worth. It suggests a desire for external affirmation.

How can I avoid constantly "looking for approval"?

Focus on developing self-confidence and internal validation. Recognize your own worth and accomplishments without relying on external opinions. Cultivate self-awareness to understand why you seek approval and address any underlying insecurities.

What are some synonyms for "looking for approval"?

Alternatives include "seeking validation", "desiring recognition", or "craving acceptance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "looking for approval" always a bad thing?

Not necessarily. While excessive reliance on external approval can be detrimental, seeking feedback and validation in healthy ways can be beneficial for growth and improvement. The key is to balance external validation with internal self-worth.