verbally approved

USAGE SUMMARY

"verbally approved" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to when something has been agreed verbally, rather than put in writing. For example, "My supervisor verbally approved my vacation request."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

When the interrogation team indicated that they intended to wait for the approval of waterboarding, the attorney general verbally approved it on July 26.

Vice

Asked if he had verbally approved renovations at the second storefront.

The New York Times

Mr. Baxter also said that Mr. Geithner verbally approved the decision to pay full price to the banks.

The New York Times

The NAO report documents one "verbally approved" case reported by the internal audit of a member of staff that had received an allowance for selling a second home in the east of England while retaining their London home in the south.

The Guardian

Gen. John Ashcroft verbally approved 10 "enhanced" techniques, including the use of insects, although that was later revoked.

Los Angeles Times

On July 24, Attorney General John Ashcroft verbally approved the use of ten interrogation techniques, which included walling, cramped confinement, and the use of diapers and insects.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"The document is suggesting that at some point in the negotiations a figure was arrived at which I approved verbally.

The Guardian

Gary Loew, another senior Corps official in Iraq at the time, remembers that the idea for drilling came from KBR and said that the Corps approved it verbally in the summer of 2003.

The New York Times

The women who agreed to participate were subsequently consented verbally using a format approved by the two ethics committee's that reviewed the application – this involved the research officer signing that she had shared the required information with each of the women, and that they had agreed to participate – this process was witnessed whenever possible.

BMC Public Health

The Mae Sot Hospital ethical committee approved our study, and the informed participants verbally consented to participate.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Prior to testing, subjects were verbally briefed about the study and signed informed consent documents approved by the institutional review board at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Diabetes Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "verbally approved" when it's important to emphasize that the approval was given orally, as opposed to in writing. This is particularly relevant in situations where a written record is expected but not yet available.

Common error

Don't assume that a "verbally approved" decision is final. Always follow up with written confirmation to avoid misunderstandings and ensure accountability. A verbal agreement alone might not hold up if disputes arise later.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verbally approved" functions as a past participle adjective modifying a noun, indicating that the approval was communicated through spoken words rather than a written format. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, and the examples showcase its role in describing approvals in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "verbally approved" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an approval that has been communicated orally rather than in writing. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and it commonly appears in news, scientific, and business contexts. While the phrase is generally accepted, it's important to follow up verbal approvals with written confirmation to avoid misunderstandings. Related phrases include "personally approved" and "verbally agreed". When using this phrase, remember to emphasize that the approval was oral and consider documenting it in writing for clarity and accountability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gave verbal approval

Rephrases the query, changing the structure but retaining the core meaning.

verbally confirmed

Highlights the act of verbally verifying something to be true or accurate.

personally approved

Emphasizes the direct and individual nature of the approval.

verbally authorized

Suggests granting official permission through spoken words.

verbally agreed

Focuses on the mutual agreement rather than the act of approval.

verbally consented

Highlights the act of giving permission or agreement verbally, often in a legal or ethical context.

verbally endorsed

Implies a more public and supportive form of approval.

verbally sanctioned

Implies a formal and authoritative approval, often used in contexts of rules or regulations.

verbally accepted

Indicates a passive agreement, simply taking something offered.

verbally validated

Focuses on confirming or supporting the truth or accuracy of something through verbal affirmation.

FAQs

What does "verbally approved" mean?

The term "verbally approved" means that something has been officially agreed upon or permitted through spoken words, rather than through a written document or formal process. It signifies an oral agreement or authorization.

Is a "verbally approved" agreement legally binding?

Whether a "verbally approved" agreement is legally binding depends on the context and jurisdiction. Some agreements require written documentation to be enforceable, while others may be valid if agreed upon verbally. Consulting with a legal professional is recommended to determine the legality of a verbal agreement in specific situations.

What are some alternatives to "verbally approved"?

You can use alternatives like "personally approved", "verbally agreed", or "gave verbal approval" depending on the context.

How do I document a "verbally approved" decision?

To document a "verbally approved" decision, send a follow-up email or memo summarizing the discussion and agreement. Include key details such as the date, participants, and the specific terms that were approved. This creates a written record of the verbal agreement.