Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
sanctioned by
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "sanctioned by" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to indicate a form of approval or authorization, usually from an authority figure or organization. For example: "The policy change was sanctioned by the school board."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(20)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
"This is not sanctioned by the union.
News & Media
He went nonetheless – and was sanctioned by the local authority.
News & Media
The final discipline sanctioned by the FIG is sports aerobics.
Encyclopedias
Some of this ritualistic abuse is sanctioned by Hinduism.
News & Media
Shylock is saying: This is sanctioned by God.
News & Media
(Judo is still not sanctioned by the N.C.A.A).
News & Media
It's not required, but it's been sanctioned by the F.D.A.
News & Media
Beitar is widely expected to be sanctioned by Uefa.
News & Media
Disrespectful behavior is certainly not sanctioned by Jewish law.
News & Media
Challenge," was "inappropriate" and was not sanctioned by the university.
News & Media
This is a choice ultimately sanctioned by the editor – Zuckerberg.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "sanctioned by", ensure that the authority or entity granting the sanction is clearly identified to provide context and credibility.
Common error
Avoid using "sanctioned by" when the approval comes from an unofficial or unqualified source. This can mislead readers about the legitimacy or validity of the action or decision.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "sanctioned by" functions as a passive construction indicating approval, authorization, or permission granted by a specific entity. It commonly modifies nouns, clarifying the source of legitimacy or endorsement, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Science
25%
Encyclopedias
8%
Less common in
Wiki
5%
Formal & Business
4%
Reference
3%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "sanctioned by" is a widely used and grammatically sound construction that conveys official approval or authorization. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's commonly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, lending credibility to the subject at hand. When using this phrase, clarity is key: explicitly state the authority providing the sanction to avoid ambiguity. While alternatives such as ""approved by"" and "authorized by" exist, "sanctioned by" often carries a more formal and authoritative tone.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
approved by
Focuses on the act of giving approval, lacking the formal or authoritative implication of "sanctioned".
authorized by
Emphasizes the granting of permission or power to do something, similar to "sanctioned" but less formal.
endorsed by
Highlights the act of publicly supporting or recommending something, often implying a degree of approval.
ratified by
Implies a formal confirmation or validation, often used in legal or political contexts.
validated by
Stresses the act of confirming or proving the accuracy or legitimacy of something.
certified by
Highlights a formal assurance that something meets certain standards, often used in professional or technical contexts.
permitted by
Indicates allowance or authorization, often used in the context of rules or regulations.
licensed by
Implies the granting of a formal permission to engage in a specific activity or profession.
accredited by
Suggests a formal recognition of competence or quality, often used in educational or professional settings.
legitimized by
Emphasizes the act of making something lawful or acceptable, often in a social or political context.
FAQs
How can I use "sanctioned by" in a sentence?
Use "sanctioned by" to indicate that an action, event, or practice has been officially approved or authorized by a recognized authority. For example, "The research was "approved by" the ethics committee" means that the committee gave its official permission for the research to proceed.
What are some alternatives to "sanctioned by"?
Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like ""approved by"", "authorized by", or "endorsed by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is "sanctioned by" formal or informal?
"Sanctioned by" leans towards a more formal register, suggesting official approval or authorization. It is commonly used in professional, academic, and news contexts rather than casual conversation.
What does it mean for something to be "sanctioned by" an organization?
When something is "sanctioned by" an organization, it means that the organization has officially approved or authorized it. This implies that the organization has given its endorsement and support, and that the activity is in accordance with its rules and guidelines.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested