What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
approbate
Example
The board of directors voted to approbate the new business proposal. [approbate: verb]
Example
The judge issued an approbate order, giving permission for the search to proceed. [approbate: adjective]
approve
Example
I approve of your choice to pursue a career in music. [approve: verb]
Example
The committee gave their approval to the project proposal. [approval: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Approve is more commonly used than approbate in everyday language. Approve is a widely recognized word that can be used in both formal and informal situations, while approbate is more specific and often used in legal or official settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between approbate and approve?
While approbate is associated with a more formal and legal tone, approve is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.