without his blessing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without his blessing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is done without the approval or permission of a particular person, often someone in a position of authority or influence. Example: "She decided to pursue her dreams without his blessing, knowing it might cause tension in their relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Would the famous 'Velvet Revolution' we witnessed in Prague have taken place without his blessing, or the collapse of the East German regime?

The Economist

However the diocesan system also makes it possible for a bishop to force the closure of a community: it cannot even advertise for an unpaid clergyman without his blessing.

The Economist

He's annoyed that the decision to pull his seven-date European tour, which was due to start at Village Underground in London on 18 February, was made without his blessing, but he understands that for an XL artist, he's small fry.

The Guardian - Music

Although it will be harder to find a position without his blessing, it is not impossible.

Science Magazine

While traditional leaders hold few constitutional powers, no politician is wise to seek office without his blessing.

BBC

Within the company Turner has always been revered for his contribution to television history, and it's hard to imagine that major changes take place there without his blessing.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mr. Hatch, who previously earned $16 an hour demonstrating Hacky Sack skills, said he joined the company, without his parents' blessing, with dreams of becoming his own superhero character — "Maverick, the masterless guy with the skilz, the unbranded one, the alone guy".

The New York Times

It is highly unlikely that the young Mr. Sarkozy would have acted without his father's blessing.

The New York Times

As for authenticity, he points to its system of approvals; no item is published for a client without his or her blessing.

The New York Times

It's hard not to suspect, anyway, that Dopp was looking to hurt Bruno, and that he wouldn't have done so without his boss's blessing.

The New Yorker

Laura Mori, a 17-year blonde Benetton hostess and model, had been his girlfriend in Treviso, apparently without his mother's blessing.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "without his blessing", ensure the context clearly identifies who "his" refers to, especially if the subject has not been recently referenced. Clarity prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that acting "without his blessing" automatically implies negative consequences. While it suggests a lack of approval, the outcome can still be positive or neutral depending on the situation and the validity of the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without his blessing" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the absence of approval or authorization for an action, as evidenced by Ludwig examples showing decisions or actions taken without someone's consent. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase usage is correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "without his blessing" is a prepositional phrase that indicates an action was taken without the approval or consent of a specific person. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and primarily used in news and media contexts. While not extremely common, understanding the phrase's purpose—to highlight independent action or potential defiance—is crucial. Alternatives include "without his approval" and "against his wishes". When using the phrase, ensure clarity regarding who "his" refers to and avoid assuming negative consequences automatically.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without his consent

Focuses specifically on the lack of agreement or permission from the person in question.

without his approval

Highlights the absence of a positive endorsement or acceptance.

against his wishes

Emphasizes that the action goes directly against what he desires or prefers.

contrary to his desires

Similar to "against his wishes", but perhaps slightly more formal.

without his authorization

Implies a lack of formal permission or empowerment to act.

without his endorsement

Indicates a lack of public support or recommendation.

independent of his say

Highlights the autonomy of the action, regardless of his opinion.

not sanctioned by him

Emphasizes that the action was not officially approved or permitted.

despite his objections

Highlights that even though there were reservations or oppositions, the action occurred nevertheless.

without his imprimatur

A more formal and less common way to say "without his approval", often used in religious or academic contexts.

FAQs

What does "without his blessing" mean?

The phrase "without his blessing" means that an action was taken or a decision was made without the approval or consent of a particular person, typically someone in a position of authority or influence.

How can I use "without his blessing" in a sentence?

You can use "without his blessing" to indicate that someone proceeded with something despite not having the approval of another person. For example: "She launched the project "without his blessing", hoping to prove its value."

What are some alternatives to "without his blessing"?

Some alternatives to "without his blessing" include "without his approval", "without his consent", or "against his wishes".

Is it better to say "without his blessing" or "without their blessing"?

The correct choice depends on whether you're referring to a single person ("his") or a group of people ("their"). If the disapproval comes from multiple individuals, "without their blessing" is appropriate.