verb

approuver

approve

Donner son accord à quelque chose ou dire que l’on est d’accord avec une idée ou une action.

Definition & meaning

The verb approuver primarily means to give one's consent to something or to find something good, valid, or suitable. It can be used in both personal and formal contexts.

There are two main nuances to its meaning:

To agree with or support: This refers to a mental or moral judgment where someone finds an idea, a behavior, or a choice to be correct or satisfactory. For example, a parent might approve of their child's choices.
To formally authorize or sanction: This is common in administrative, legal, or professional settings. It means to give official validation to a document, a law, or a project, making it effective or legal. For example, a director might approve a budget or a contract.

Grammar & Word origin

approuver is a regular verb belonging to the first group (ending in -er). It is a transitive verb, meaning it is followed by a direct object (one approves something or someone).

The word originates from the Latin verb approbare, which is composed of the prefix ad- (towards) and the adjective probus (good/honest). Literally, it means "to find good" or "to recognize as good." This etymological root is shared with the English word "approve."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

accepter: To accept or agree to something.
autoriser: To give permission or authority.
valider: To make something valid or to confirm its accuracy.
admettre: To admit or acknowledge something as true or acceptable.
consentir: To give consent or to agree.
ratifier: To sign or give formal consent to a treaty or agreement, making it officially valid.