What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
approve
Example
The committee will approve the budget for next year. [approve: verb]
Example
I fully approve of your decision to pursue higher education. [approve: verb]
sanction
Example
The government will sanction the construction of a new hospital. [sanction: verb]
Example
The company faced sanctions for violating environmental regulations. [sanctions: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Approve is more commonly used than sanction in everyday language. Approve is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while sanction is more specific and often used in legal, political, or international relations contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between approve and sanction?
While approve can be used in both formal and informal contexts, sanction is generally more formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
