Part of Speech

Adjective (past participle of the verb "approve")

Pronunciation

/əˈpruːvd/

Definitions

• Officially accepted or confirmed as satisfactory or acceptable.
• Given permission or authorization, typically by an authority or governing body.
• Having been sanctioned or endorsed after review or evaluation.

Usage Examples

• The project has been approved by the board of directors.
• She received an approved request for her leave application.
• Only approved vendors are allowed to participate in the tender process.

Etymology

The word "approved" originates from the Old French "aprover," derived from the Latin "approbare," which means "to approve" or "to confirm as satisfactory." The word has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving from its original meaning of "to test" or "to demonstrate as acceptable."

Synonyms

• Authorized
• Sanctioned
• Endorsed
• Accepted
• Confirmed

Antonyms

• Rejected
• Denied
• Disapproved
• Refused
• Opposed

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some accents, particularly in British English, the "r" sound in "approved" may be less pronounced, and the "oo" sound is more rounded, compared to American English, where the "r" is more pronounced. Regional accents in both the US and UK also affect the speed and stress of the syllables.

Historical Usage

The use of "approved" as a past participle dates back to the 14th century, evolving from the Old French "aprover" and the Latin "approbare." It originally referred to something being tested or confirmed as suitable, particularly in formal or legal contexts. Over the centuries, its usage expanded to include general endorsement or consent in various contexts.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, receiving approval from an authoritative figure, such as a parent, elder, or leader, holds significant social importance. In professional settings, approval often denotes the final consent to proceed with plans or decisions. The concept of approval is also crucial in education and governance, where it signifies conformity to rules or regulations.

More Information

The term "approved" plays a central role in formal processes, such as contract agreements, project initiations, and regulatory compliance. It implies that something has been reviewed, deemed acceptable, and granted official sanction. In social settings, it is often used to express acceptance or endorsement of behaviors, actions, or decisions, signaling a positive outcome in various domains.