What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
approval
Example
The committee gave their approval for the new project to proceed. [approval: noun]
Example
She nodded her head in approval when she saw the finished artwork. [approval: noun]
consent
Example
He asked for her consent before sharing the personal information. [consent: noun]
Example
They consented to let their child participate in the school trip. [consented: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Approval is more commonly used than consent in everyday language. Approval is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while consent is often associated with legal matters or personal choices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between approval and consent?
While approval is commonly used in professional or formal settings, consent can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Consent is often associated with legal matters, but it can also be used in everyday conversations.