widespread approval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "widespread approval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a large number of people agree or support something. Example: "The new policy received widespread approval from both employees and management, indicating a strong consensus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

His new cabinet has attracted widespread approval.

The Economist

But, if anything, it is Farbrace's appointment that has brought more widespread approval.

The Guardian - Sport

There is widespread approval of the policy expressed in the white paper Every Child Matters.

The Guardian

The move received widespread approval from muslims and from the banks.

The Guardian - Money

He mastered the art of the small gesture that cost little but won widespread approval.

The Guardian

There was widespread approval in India when the men were sentenced to be hanged.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

He mastered the art of the small gesture that cost little but won widespread public approval.

The Guardian

Some expected his career to suffer but he emerged unscathed and, to widespread internal approval, won the Radio 4 job.

The Guardian

She was inaugurated Sept. 6, 1898, at Amsterdam's Nieuwe Kerk, and soon gained widespread popular approval.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The polls did find widespread European approval for the administration's decision last month to keep troops in Bosnia and Kosovo.

The New York Times

The Magic Whip, Blur's chart-topping comeback album, released to widespread critical approval, is snubbed despite an appearance last year for Damon Albarn's solo album.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "widespread approval", ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the approving. Be specific about the group or community showing approval to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "widespread approval" when the approval is actually limited to a specific group or a small sample. Overstating the breadth of approval can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

"Widespread approval" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the state of general agreement or positive reception towards something. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "widespread approval" is a commonly used noun phrase that effectively communicates broad acceptance or support for an idea, action, or policy. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic content. While it's crucial to ensure the approval is genuinely widespread and not overstated, the phrase offers a clear and concise way to highlight positive sentiment. Consider using synonyms like "general acceptance" or "broad support" to add nuance or avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general acceptance

Emphasizes the broad acceptance of something, often implying a passive agreement rather than active endorsement.

broad support

Highlights the support for something, indicating active backing from a wide range of people.

popular acclaim

Focuses on enthusiastic public approval, often associated with artistic or cultural achievements.

universal agreement

Implies that virtually everyone is in agreement, suggesting a lack of dissent.

near-unanimous consent

Suggests almost complete agreement, with only a few dissenting voices.

extensive endorsement

Highlights the active and explicit support from a large number of people or organizations.

overall satisfaction

Focuses on the feeling of contentment and approval, typically in response to a product or service.

favorable reception

Emphasizes how something was received, implying a positive response from a wide audience.

positive feedback

Highlights the positive reactions and comments received, indicating approval and satisfaction.

public endorsement

Focuses on the explicit and open support from the general public.

FAQs

How can I use "widespread approval" in a sentence?

You can use "widespread approval" to describe situations where a policy, decision, or action is generally supported by a large number of people. For example: "The new environmental regulations received "general acceptance" from the community".

What are some alternatives to saying "widespread approval"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "broad support", "general acceptance", or "popular acclaim".

Is it better to say "widespread approval" or "universal approval"?

"Widespread approval" implies broad support, while "universal approval" suggests that everyone agrees. In most real-world situations, "widespread approval" is more accurate because it's rare to have complete agreement on anything. Use "universal approval" only when there's truly no dissent.

What does "widespread approval" imply about the supported idea?

The phrase "widespread approval" often implies that the idea, policy, or action being supported is seen as beneficial, fair, or effective by a large segment of the population. It suggests a positive evaluation and acceptance by many.