wait for approval

USAGE SUMMARY

"wait for approval" is correct and can be used in written English.
Example: The project cannot move forward until we receive approval from the board. We will have to wait for approval before making any further decisions.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"What we can do is just wait for approval from the government.

MIT Technology Review

Now they must give the authorities 15 days' notice of their debates, and wait for approval.

The Guardian

But they will more likely continue to wait for approval from above, like any player does for his coach.

The New York Times - Sports

While applications -- while applicants wait for approval, for example, they're often forbidden from visiting the United States.

The New York Times

For now, the Bells must wait for approval from the Federal Communications Commission before selling long-distance service.

The New York Times

After finishing and testing your app, you submit it to Apple and wait for approval, which usually takes a few weeks.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

"Apligraf is still waiting for approval and faces stiff competition even if it is approved," warns Kopin.

Forbes

We're waiting for approval.

The Washington Post

He is still waiting for approval from the interior ministry.

The Economist

"There are thousands of cases waiting for approval," he said.

The New Yorker

They are waiting for approval of their lease application on a new apartment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "wait for approval", ensure the context clearly indicates who is granting the approval and what the approval pertains to. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "wait for approval" without specifying from whom or what the approval is needed. For example, instead of "We must wait for approval", specify "We must wait for approval from the manager" or "We must wait for approval of the budget".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wait for approval" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of postponing or delaying an action until permission or authorization is granted. Ludwig examples show it in various contexts from government approvals to internal company processes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "wait for approval" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression across diverse contexts, as validated by Ludwig. It signifies the need to postpone action pending authorization, serving an informative purpose. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to specify the source and subject of approval to enhance clarity. Ludwig’s analysis underscores its adaptability and consistent usage in professional, news and scientific sources. Common alternatives include "await endorsement" or "expect authorization".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expect authorization

Highlights the anticipation of receiving official permission.

pause for consent

Specifically emphasizes the need for agreement before proceeding.

await endorsement

Focuses on receiving support or backing for an idea or action, instead of a formal permission.

hold off for confirmation

Emphasizes delaying action until verification or validation is received.

look for the go-ahead

An informal way to express waiting for permission to proceed.

be patient for clearance

Highlights the need for patience while waiting for permission or authorization.

defer to the green light

Similar to "look for the go-ahead", but implies a more formal setting or process.

tarry for permission

Implies a deliberate delay while waiting for formal authorization.

sit tight for the okay

An informal way to indicate waiting for a positive response or agreement.

bide time until the nod

Suggests waiting and doing nothing until a sign of approval is given.

FAQs

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

You can use "wait for approval" when you need to express the need to postpone something until permission is granted. For example: "We have to "wait for approval" before starting the project".

What are some alternatives to "wait for approval"?

Some alternatives to "wait for approval" include phrases like "await endorsement", "expect authorization", or "look for the go-ahead".

Is it better to say "wait for approval" or "awaiting approval"?

Both phrases are correct, but "wait for approval" is an active construction, while "awaiting approval" is a more passive construction. The best choice depends on the context and desired emphasis.

What's the difference between "wait for approval" and "seek approval"?

"Wait for approval" implies that the process of seeking approval has already occurred and one is in a state of waiting. "Seek approval" means to actively ask for or try to obtain permission or agreement for something.