What is the Difference Between Approve and Authorize?

The difference between "approve" and "authorize" lies in the context and level of involvement in the action being discussed. Here are the key distinctions:

• Approve:
• Means to confirm, ratify, or sanction officially, or to commend or regard as good.
• Represents an expression of acceptance towards a favorable or pleasing thing or action.
• Involves an affirmation from a detached viewpoint, where the approver has no real direct involvement with the subject.
• Examples include approving a budget, a new policy, or a contract.
• Authorize:
• Means to give authority or official power to; empower.
• Involves an approval and, at the same time, a proactive extension of power for the purpose of pursuing what is being approved.
• Requires a close involvement between the authorizer and the one being authorized.
• Examples include authorizing a payment, a decision, or a course of action.

In summary, "approve" refers to the act of giving permission or confirming something, while "authorize" involves giving someone the go-ahead and the necessary power or authority to act.

Comparative Table: Approve vs Authorize

The difference between "approve" and "authorize" lies in the level of involvement and the context in which they are used. Here is a summary of the differences:

Please note that these definitions and distinctions are based on the English language and may not apply to other languages or specific contexts.