approbation

What does “approbation” mean?

noun.approval or praise.

SAT Usage

This term often appears in contexts involving social dynamics, relationships, or critiques of societal norms. It emphasizes not just general approval, but a formal or public endorsement, distinguishing it from synonyms like "praise," which may lack the same level of weight or significance.

Common Confusions

Approbation implies a formal or official endorsement of approval, while praise usually suggests informal admiration or commendation without the same level of significance.

Example Sentences

• The plan won the committee's full approbation.

• The proposal received widespread approbation from all members of the committee.

Word Parts: How to Remember “approbation”

Break “approbation” into its parts: ad- (to, toward). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: ad- to, toward (Latin)