Approve vs. endorse

What does approve mean?

Approve is a verb which means to agree or accept something as satisfactory.

For example:

·      I approved his request two weeks ago.

What does endorse mean?

Endorse is a verb which means to declare public approval or support of something. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as signing a letter of support, posting on social media or appearing in a commercial. In the UK, endorse can also be used in reference to receiving a road traffic offences. Endorse implies that a person has both a positive attitude toward and is actively supporting something.

For example:

·      She endorsed their latest report.

·      Her licence was endorsed with three points (UK usage).

What’s the difference between approve and endorse?

Approve means to accept something as satisfactory while endorse means to declare public approval or support for something. While approve implies that the approver has a positive attitude towards something, endorse implies a positive attitude and active support.

For example:

·      I don’t approve of her endorsing a product made by that company.