seek approbation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek approbation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire for approval or praise from others. Example: "In her quest for success, she often sought approbation from her peers and mentors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The urge to take credit, to seek approbation for your work, is an understandable one.

The New York Times

It's evident that the two could hardly be closer – frequently Meighan will pull the handbrake on his verbal flow to seek approbation from his bandmate ("the great thing about Kasabian was we never tried to be cool. That was the whole point of it.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Although the system may be winning on the campaign trail, effective leadership is not simply practicing accommodation and seeking approbation.

The New York Times

But in between bouts of fist pumping he made earnest eye contact with the engineers and musicians and other people around him, clearly seeking approbation.

The New York Times - Arts

Dozens of people who have known Bill Clinton over the years maintain that he is genuinely curious about nearly every individual he meets; clearly wants to be liked; and seeks approbation in virtually every encounter.

The New Yorker

There he established a monastery and continued to seek government approbation for Redemptorist houses, which was granted shortly after his death.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the problem with dating a narcissist is that they wear out their partners with demands for attention and soon start to seek that approbation from others.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Despite not seeking the approbation of others, he receives it in spades.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The reprobate cop Mark turns to him as well, seeking official approbation and a father figure.

The New York Times

Long before the war, many reporters had adjusted to the pressures by seeking the approbation of the Information Ministry officials who approved visas, assigned minders and controlled special favors.

The New York Times

If what you seek is pure approbation and amazement at your genius, send your story to your family.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seek approbation", consider whether a simpler term like "seek approval" might be more appropriate for broader audiences.

Common error

Avoid using "seek approbation" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in everyday settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "seek approval" or "want praise".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek approbation" functions as a verb phrase where "seek" is the verb indicating the action of trying to obtain something, and "approbation" is the noun representing what is being sought: approval or praise. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is valid and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seek approbation" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of trying to gain approval or praise. Ludwig AI validates its usability in written English. While the phrase is valid, it is relatively rare and tends to appear in more formal contexts, particularly in News & Media. Consider simpler alternatives like "seek approval" for broader audiences. Despite its correctness, the phrase should be used judiciously to avoid sounding overly formal in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desire approval

Focuses on the longing for acceptance or endorsement.

seek endorsement

Highlights the desire for formal approval or support.

pursue recognition

Highlights the act of trying to gain acknowledgement or praise.

desire acceptance

Highlights the yearning for being included and approved by others.

crave validation

Emphasizes a strong need for confirmation of one's worth or actions.

look for commendation

Focuses on searching for formal praise or approval.

solicit praise

Focuses on actively requesting or inviting commendation.

hunt for acclaim

Emphasizes the active pursuit of public praise and recognition.

court favor

Suggests an attempt to gain approval or goodwill, often from someone in authority.

wish for praise

Expresses a simple desire for positive feedback.

FAQs

How can I use "seek approbation" in a sentence?

You can use "seek approbation" to describe someone's active pursuit of approval or praise. For example: "The politician seemed primarily driven to "seek approbation" from the public, rather than focusing on effective governance."

What does "seek approbation" mean?

"Seek approbation" means to actively try to gain approval or praise from others. It implies a conscious effort to be recognized and valued.

Is it better to "seek approval" or "seek approbation"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "seek approval" is more common and widely understood. "Seek approbation" is more formal and less frequently used. Choose based on the context and audience.

What are some alternatives to "seek approbation"?

Alternatives to "seek approbation" include "desire approval", "pursue recognition", or "crave validation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.