give the green light
Meaning
To officially approve or authorize something so it can begin or proceed.
Origin
From traffic signals: a green light means it’s safe/legal to go. By metaphor, an authority “gives the green light” to allow an action or project to proceed.
Notes
Suggests official approval from someone with authority; implies a project can now proceed. Common in business/organizational contexts; neutral tone, usable in speech and writing.
Examples
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The CEO gave the green light for the new hiring plan.
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After the safety inspection, the city gave the green light to reopen the bridge.
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My doctor gave me the green light to start running again.
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The committee won’t give the green light until they review the final budget.
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Once legal gives the green light, we’ll launch the app globally.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “give the green light to + verb” or “give the green light for + noun.” Tense changes on “give” (gave/has given). Article “the” is fixed.
Synonyms
- approve
- authorize
- give the go-ahead
- sign off (on)
- ok
Antonyms
- block
- veto
- refuse approval
- withhold approval
- turn down