seeking validation

USAGE SUMMARY

"seeking validation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a person or group seeking approval, appreciation or affirmation from others. For example: "The candidate was seeking validation from the voters in order to get elected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Seeking validation of her own mystical experiences, she validates those of her readers.

HuffPost

As Bill Clinton went to Harlem seeking validation from a mostly black crowd, Clarence Thomas went to the Hilton seeking validation from a mostly white crowd.

The New York Times

I am not seeking validation from a partner, I am seeking partnership in that partner".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And clearly the desire to have sex as well, but it was like seeking validation without attachment or obligation".

The Guardian - Music

How we will live I don't know, but seeking validation in a pay cheque is a fool's game.

The Guardian

The Celtics are seeking validation, after having their title defense short-circuited by injuries last year.

The New York Times

If people sense that a leader is seeking validation, the best she can hope for is muted applause.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

So we seek validation and happiness in other ways.

The Washington Post

It's not as if TV actors still seek validation from doing movies.

The Guardian

They ask the same questions repeatedly and seek validation from adults often.

The Washington Post

It's natural to seek validation for the choices, and particularly the sacrifices, you have made.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Recognize when you are "seeking validation" in professional settings. Instead of overtly seeking approval, frame your contributions as valuable insights or solutions to build trust and credibility.

Common error

Avoid making decisions solely based on the desire to be validated by others. Balance external feedback with your own judgment and goals to maintain autonomy and authenticity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeking validation" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the act of looking for approval or confirmation from external sources. As shown by Ludwig AI, this can be applied to people, organizations, or even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seeking validation" is a commonly used gerund phrase that describes the act of looking for approval or confirmation, often highlighting a need for external reassurance. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and general discourse, indicating its versatility and relevance. While occasional use of "seeking validation" is normal, over-reliance can indicate a lack of self-confidence. To enhance your writing, focus on balancing external feedback with your own judgment and frame your contributions constructively to build credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requiring validation

Shifts the focus to the necessity, rather than the act, of obtaining validation.

desiring approval

Emphasizes the act of wanting approval specifically.

wanting affirmation

Highlights the need for positive reinforcement and confirmation.

looking for confirmation

Focuses on the act of searching for external verification.

needing external approval

Highlights the dependence on outside sources for feeling adequate.

soliciting endorsement

Suggests a more active and deliberate pursuit of support.

courting approval

Implies trying to gain approval, often through flattery or charm.

fishing for compliments

Suggests a subtle attempt to elicit positive feedback.

craving recognition

Emphasizes a deep and persistent desire for acknowledgment.

hankering for acceptance

Highlights the yearning to be accepted and included.

FAQs

How can I use "seeking validation" in a sentence?

You can use "seeking validation" to describe actions where someone is looking for approval or confirmation from others. For example, "The politician was "seeking validation" from voters during the campaign rally".

What's the difference between "seeking validation" and "seeking approval"?

"Seeking validation" is a broader term that includes seeking confirmation of one's beliefs, feelings, or worth, while "seeking approval" focuses specifically on gaining acceptance or permission for an action or idea.

What are some alternatives to "seeking validation"?

Alternatives include "desiring approval", "wanting affirmation", or "looking for confirmation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "seeking validation" a positive or negative trait?

It can be both. Occasionally "seeking validation" is normal and healthy, as it helps us to ensure we are on the right track. However, constantly "seeking validation" can indicate insecurity or a lack of self-confidence.