sign of approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sign of approval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has been accepted or endorsed, often in a formal or informal context. Example: "The manager gave a nod, which was a clear sign of approval for the proposed project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

"It was a sign of approval, of being accepted".

The New Yorker

It was not a sign of approval but a request.

The New York Times

"I'll take that as a sign of approval," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Martin Roberts takes laughter as a sign of approval.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I took her willingness to be interviewed as a sign of approval.

The Guardian - Books

The coalition, called New York Uprising, will not formally endorse candidates, but will publicly recognize those who signed with "a sign of approval".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

The audience responded enthusiastically, though, and the orchestra gave signs of approval.

The New Yorker

Philosophers have recommended that we follow our consciences rather than signs of approval or condemnation from outside.

The Guardian - Books

He worries that the Catholic bishops are so preoccupied with looking over their shoulders for signs of approval or disapproval from Rome that they are kept from acting.

The New York Times

"Kids are very sensitive to peer approval, and they're likely to change their norms and values based on subtle signs of approval -- or even on the opportunity to have an audience," he said.

Huffington Post

Thus, one would expect that face-to-face interviews would diminish social distance and lead to greater social desirability bias in survey responses because the respondent is observed directly by the interviewer who can respond to non-verbal signs of approval, or disapproval in the form of facial expression or body language.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific synonyms like "endorsement" or "ratification" if a formal tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid assuming a "sign of approval" when the indication is unclear. Ensure the action or gesture is definitively meant as an endorsement, rather than a neutral or ambiguous response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sign of approval" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies an indicator or signal that something has been positively assessed or endorsed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase correctly conveys acceptance or support.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Unknown/unmatched sources

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sign of approval" is a commonly used expression indicating endorsement or positive assessment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and general applicability. Its usage spans across various contexts, primarily in news, media, and general informational sources. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the context specifies what is being approved and by whom. Alternatives such as "seal of approval" may be more appropriate for formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seal of approval

Implies a formal endorsement from an authoritative body.

indication of acceptance

Focuses on the act of accepting rather than specifically approving.

vote of confidence

Suggests a formal declaration of trust and approval.

endorsement signal

Highlights the signaling aspect of the endorsement.

validation signal

Emphasizes the act of validating something through a visible sign.

gesture of agreement

Emphasizes a non-verbal way of showing accord.

nod of endorsement

Combines a physical gesture with the concept of endorsement.

expression of support

Broader, encompassing general support, not just approval.

green light

Idiomatic; implies permission to proceed.

thumbs up

Informal; a visual gesture of approval.

FAQs

How can I use "sign of approval" in a sentence?

You can use "sign of approval" to indicate endorsement or agreement. For example: "The manager's nod was a clear "sign of approval" for the project."

What is a more formal alternative to "sign of approval"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "seal of approval" or "official endorsement".

How is "sign of approval" different from "stamp of approval"?

"Sign of approval" is a more general term, while "stamp of approval" often implies a formal endorsement, especially from an authoritative body.

What are some non-verbal examples of a "sign of approval"?

Non-verbal examples include a "thumbs up", a nod, or applause. These can all act as a "sign of approval" depending on the situation.