approve

approve of (someone or something)

To agree with or support someone or something. I don't approve of your behavior right now. My parents have never approved of any of my girlfriends. I never approved of this spending increase! Where is the paperwork for this?

See also: approve, of

I approve this message

1. A standard phrase attached to the end of a political advertisement by a candidate running for federal office. Do you really want your future in the hands of someone who launders money for the cartel? Vote Smith-Robertson for president this election. I'm Jonathan Smith, and I approve this message. Finally, as governor, I vow to do everything I can to improve our fine state. I'm Maria Santiago, and I approve this message. I'm Barack Obama, and I approve this message.

2. Used alongside humorous statements in order to parody the solemnity of the message. A: "I say you need to eat more vegetables. I'm your father, and I approve this message!" B: "Har har, Dad." You kids need to behave better when you get to school each day. I'm your principal, and I approve this message. You guys should really study harder. I'm your mom, and I approve this message!

See also: approve, message, this

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

approve of someone or something

to take a favorable view of someone or something. I approve of the way you have remodeled the kitchen. I don't approve of your foul language.

See also: approve, of

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

approve of

v.

To consider someone or something right, good, or appropriate: My voice teacher does not approve of eating ice cream before singing. My parents need to know exactly where I plan to go before they can approve of my trip.

See also: approve, of

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs. Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.