ratify it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ratify it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the formal approval or confirmation of a document, agreement, or treaty. Example: "The committee voted unanimously to ratify it, ensuring that the new policy would take effect immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Legally the pact applies only in countries that ratify it, but its uses as a yardstick may be broader.

The New York Times

But America has yet to ratify it, while Britain has incorporated its provisions in a new law.

The Economist

Rhode Island, which passed laws to gradually emancipate its slaves in 1784-87, didn't ratify it until 1790.

Huffington Post

"We expect the members will ratify it.

The New York Times

Iran has also failed to ratify it.

The Guardian

"We'll recommend wholeheartedly that they ratify it".

The New York Times

Well, the US did ratify it several years ago.

The Guardian

Yet failure to ratify it would be a serious setback.That, sadly, is a possibility.

The Economist

The fiscal compact will come into effect when 12 of the 17 euro members ratify it.

The Economist

A failure to ratify it, he said, would "deliver a serious blow to our reputation".

The New York Times

Should they try to ratify it anyway, on the grounds that anything is better than nothing?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ratify it", ensure the subject performing the ratification is clearly identified. For instance, specify which body (e.g., the Senate, the board) needs to ratify the agreement or treaty.

Common error

Avoid using "ratify it" loosely to mean 'approve' in informal contexts. The term is best reserved for formal approvals of agreements, treaties, or contracts. Use "approve it" for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ratify it" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of formally confirming or approving something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this usage is correct and common in English. The 'it' serves as a placeholder for the agreement, treaty, or decision being ratified.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ratify it" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the formal approval or confirmation of an agreement, treaty, or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, particularly in legal, political, and business contexts. Predominantly found in news and media sources, as well as encyclopedias, the phrase signifies a formal validation process. When using "ratify it", clarity is essential; always specify what is being ratified and by whom. While alternatives like "approve it", "endorse it", and "confirm it" exist, "ratify it" is most appropriate for formal and official contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ratify the agreement

This is a more explicit variation, useful when specifying what is being ratified.

approve it

This is a direct synonym, implying formal agreement or sanctioning of something.

endorse it

Suggests support and approval, often implying public backing.

confirm it

Focuses on verifying or validating something, making it official.

affirm it

This suggests a strong declaration or confirmation of something.

validate it

Implies establishing the legitimacy or correctness of something.

adopt it

Suggests formally accepting or embracing a proposal or idea.

sanction it

Indicates official permission or approval, often with legal or authoritative weight.

pass it

Implies a successful vote or decision in favor of something.

give it the green light

An idiomatic expression meaning to give permission for something to proceed.

FAQs

What does "ratify it" mean?

"Ratify it" means to formally approve or confirm something, such as a treaty or agreement, making it officially valid.

When is it appropriate to use "ratify it"?

Use "ratify it" when referring to the formal approval of agreements, treaties, or contracts, especially by governing bodies or organizations. It's not appropriate for casual approval.

What can I say instead of "ratify it"?

You can use alternatives like "approve it", "endorse it", or "confirm it" depending on the context.

Is "ratify it" formal language?

Yes, "ratify it" is formal language and is typically used in legal, political, or business contexts when discussing formal approvals or agreements.