What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ratify
Example
The government will ratify the trade agreement with the neighboring country. [ratify: verb]
Example
The board of directors voted to ratify the CEO's decision to expand the company. [ratify: verb]
sanction
Example
The school principal will sanction the use of the gym for the fundraiser event. [sanction: verb]
Example
The United Nations imposed sanctions on the country for violating human rights. [sanctions: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sanction is more commonly used than ratify in everyday language, especially in the context of punishment or restrictions. However, ratify is more common in legal or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ratify and sanction?
Ratify is generally considered more formal than sanction, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.
