seek for approval

USAGE SUMMARY

'seek for approval' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are looking for approval from someone for a plan, a decision or an action. For example: The board of directors are currently seeking for approval from shareholders to implement a new policy.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This has been a case-by-case decision, and there is no guarantee that in the future notifications seeking for approval of cultivation will not be applied.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Prior to starting the (pilot) training we sought for ethical approval from the hospital's research and ethics committee.

BMC Medical Education

A family member fired a publisher for failing to seek approval for an editorial calling for the resignation of Prime Minister.

The New York Times

AT&T said it will seek shareholder approval for a 1-for-5 reverse stock split.

Forbes

The move could potentially pave the way for Apple to seek regulators' approval for its products to be used as diagnostic tools in the future.

BBC

Advanced Cell Technology will seek approval for human trials of its treatment for vision loss.

MIT Technology Review

They seek regulatory approval for new equipment, support for mergers, emergency loans and backing for capital projects.

The New York Times

The company would have to adhere to this, or seek approval for any change.

The Economist

All territories, he said, must seek approval for official borrowing above a threshold.

The Economist

Ben van Beurden said that Shell would seek approval for the deal from shareholders.

Independent

This week, the consortium will seek approval for 392 high-end flats overlooking Canary Wharf.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically correct, "seek approval" is often more concise and stylistically preferred over "seek for approval". Consider which sounds more natural in your specific context.

Common error

Avoid using additional phrases that reiterate the need for approval, such as "seek for approval and permission". The word "approval" already implies permission, making the addition redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek for approval" functions as a verb phrase, specifically indicating an action—the act of trying to obtain agreement or permission. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Academic

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seek for approval" is a grammatically correct way to express the act of attempting to gain permission or endorsement. While valid, Ludwig's analysis suggests that "seek approval" is often more concise and stylistically preferable. The phrase's register is generally neutral, suitable for various contexts from science and news to business. When using "seek for approval", clarity is key—ensure the source of approval is clearly identified. Consider replacing it with synonyms like "request permission" or "solicit authorization" for a more formal tone, or "get the green light" for informal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seek authorization

Omits the preposition "for", making it more succinct and potentially more formal in tone.

request permission

This alternative focuses on the act of asking for permission, which is a key component of seeking approval. It's more direct and less nuanced.

solicit authorization

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the act of officially requesting authorization. It's suitable for professional or legal contexts.

obtain consent

This highlights the act of getting consent, particularly relevant in ethical or medical situations. It implies a more willing agreement.

secure endorsement

This option emphasizes gaining support or backing, often from a person or group of authority. It focuses on the positive aspect of approval.

pursue endorsement

Focuses on the active pursuit of support or validation, implying a more deliberate effort.

get the green light

This is an idiomatic expression meaning to receive permission to proceed. It's informal and indicates the go-ahead for a project or action.

apply for clearance

Suggests a formal application process, often used in contexts involving security or regulated activities.

canvass support

Highlights the act of actively seeking widespread support, often in a political or campaign setting.

court favor

This is a more figurative expression that suggests trying to win someone's approval through charm or flattery. It implies a less direct approach.

FAQs

Is it better to say "seek approval" or "seek for approval"?

While both are grammatically correct, "seek approval" is often more concise and preferred. It's generally considered more stylistically elegant and avoids unnecessary prepositions. The choice depends on context and desired level of formality.

What does it mean to "seek approval"?

To "seek approval" means to actively attempt to gain permission, agreement, or endorsement from someone with the authority to grant it. This could involve presenting a plan, proposal, or request to the relevant party.

What are some synonyms for "seek approval"?

Alternatives to "seek approval" include phrases like "request permission", "solicit authorization", or "obtain consent", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How can I effectively "seek approval" for a proposal?

To effectively "seek approval", ensure your proposal is well-researched, clearly presented, and addresses any potential concerns or objections. Tailor your presentation to the audience and highlight the benefits of your proposal to them.