What is the difference between 'accept' and 'agree' and 'approve'? (2024)

When you 'agree' to do something, it means that you express willingness to do something or give consent for someone else to do something because you believe it is a good idea or aligns with your own thoughts or values. 'Agreeing' often implies that you are satisfied with a particular course of action or decision or think that it is good enough. When you 'accept' something, it means you are content with what has happened or has been suggested, even if it does not completely align with your personal preferences or desires. 'Approve', on the other hand, means to give official or formal consent or authorization to something, such as a plan, action, request, or decision. It involves evaluating and finding something acceptable, satisfactory, or in accordance with certain standards, rules, or expectations and often implies granting permission or giving a positive evaluation from a position of power or authority. Here are some examples:

The board members agreed to increase the budget for marketing initiatives.

He agreed to the terms and conditions of the contract and signed it.

The jury accepted the evidence presented by the prosecution.

The supervisor approved the employee's request for a vacation.