Word
approving
Phoneticsap·prov·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/əˈpɹuvɪŋ/
UK/ɐpɹˈuːvɪŋ/
Definition
adj. showing that you agree with or support something. You use it to describe a look, a comment, or a decision that says 'yes'.
adj. expressing agreement, support, or satisfaction with a person, action, or proposal. Often used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb.
Examples
“She gave me an approving nod.”
“The manager gave an approving comment on the new design.”
“The committee issued an approving report, noting that the project had met all safety standards and stayed within budget.”
Examples
simple
“She gave me an approving nod.”
contextual
“The manager gave an approving comment on the new design.”
complex
“The committee issued an approving report, noting that the project had met all safety standards and stayed within budget.”
Usage
The adjective is often used attributively before nouns like 'look', 'smile', 'nod', or 'comment'.
Real-World Examples
“The UK is the first country in Europe to approve it, after approving another weight-loss pill in June.” “On Thursday, a US District Court in Oregon ordered the US government to restart the process of approving wind projects.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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