solicit approval for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solicit approval for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting permission or endorsement for a proposal, plan, or action from someone in authority. Example: "Before proceeding with the project, we need to solicit approval for the budget from the finance department."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We use it as a promotional tool when it suits us: we solicit approval for our projects through editorial advertising - those "profile" and "making of" pieces which plump up the supplements - and we're indignant if the critics fail to add hot water to the bath of approbation.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

When Minaya makes that first trade, he will not first call Bud Selig or Bob DuPuy or Sandy Alderson to solicit approval.

The New York Times - Sports

As the 2017 proxy season approaches, companies may be preparing to solicit shareholder approval for a new, or an amendment to an existing, equity incentive plan.

Harvard University

School board members need to approve any added options and district staff will return to the board for approval to solicit bids for construction, and then again for any final contract award.

Los Angeles Times

No gifts may be solicited for projects for which fundraising approval has been denied.

Stanford University

The opposition in New York City has also been fueled by delays in the selection of Edison and in laying out the ground rules for soliciting the approval of parents.

The New York Times

In 1985 he was appointed director of the museum, and in the early 1990's he began soliciting money and government approval for a building to transfer the collection from its rooms in a derelict former bank.

The New York Times - Arts

They are also not allowed to solicit contributions for campaigns.

The New York Times

Gore also used his website to solicit donations for Obama.

Los Angeles Times

The Fishers' plan will need approval by the Presidio's seven-member board, which will also solicit other proposals for the Main Post.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead, top leaders like Mr. Hu and Mr. Wen have met with ministers, provincial leaders and party elders to marshal approval for Mr. Bo's ouster and solicit views on handling the case.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "solicit approval for", ensure the context clearly indicates who is being asked for approval and what the subject of the approval is.

Common error

Avoid using "solicit" when a simpler term like "ask" or "request" is sufficient. "Solicit" often implies a formal or persistent effort to obtain something, so use it when that nuance is intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solicit approval for" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase and preposition, indicating the action of seeking or requesting endorsement or permission. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "solicit approval for" is a grammatically correct and formally appropriate way to express the action of seeking permission or endorsement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in contexts such as news, academia, and business. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about who is being asked for approval and the subject requiring approval. Alternatives include "request authorization for" or "seek consent for". Remember, "solicit" carries a nuance of formality and active pursuit, so choose it when that meaning is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request authorization for

Emphasizes the formal act of seeking official permission.

seek consent for

Highlights the need for agreement or permission, focusing on the act of obtaining agreement.

ask for permission to

A more direct and straightforward way of requesting authorization.

seek endorsement of

Focuses on obtaining support or recommendation for something.

obtain clearance for

Implies getting an official pass or authorization, often in a more regulated context.

secure agreement for

Stresses the act of making an agreement solid or confirmed.

invite authorization for

Suggests a more proactive approach, where permission is essentially invited or encouraged.

apply for approval of

Highlights the formal submission process required to get approval.

seek sanction for

Implies a more formal or official authorization, often from a governing body.

canvass support for

Focuses on gathering backing or advocacy for a cause or proposal.

FAQs

How can I use "solicit approval for" in a sentence?

You can use "solicit approval for" when requesting permission or endorsement for a proposal, plan, or action from someone in authority. For example: "Before proceeding with the project, we need to solicit approval for the budget from the finance department."

What are some alternatives to "solicit approval for"?

You can use alternatives like "request authorization for", "seek consent for", or "ask for permission to" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "solicit" instead of "ask"?

"Solicit" implies a more formal or persistent request. Use "solicit" when you are actively seeking something, often requiring effort or persuasion, rather than a simple inquiry. You could simply "ask for help", but you "solicit donations".

Is "solicit approval for" a formal expression?

Yes, "solicit approval for" is generally considered a formal expression. In more casual settings, phrases like "get the go-ahead for" or "ask for permission for" might be more appropriate.