approval

Official permission for something to happen or be done.

• We need your approval.
• The council granted approval for the extension.
• Have they received approval to begin work?

How to use it: approval for something (We need approval for the new building.); approval to do something (They received approval to open a clinic.); approval from someone (The project needs approval from the council.)

Similar words: permission, authorization, consent

Opposites: refusal, rejection

Common phrases: official approval, get approval, approval for something, written approval

A positive response showing that you like or support someone or something.

• He nodded in approval.
• She wanted to win her parents' approval.
• The audience showed its approval with loud applause.

How to use it: approval of someone/something (Her smile showed approval of my choice.)

Similar words: acceptance, support, praise

Opposites: disapproval

Common phrases: nod of approval, win someone's approval, show approval