The phrase “as approved by” is a common sight in formal documents, contracts, and even academic writing. While seemingly straightforward, understanding its usage and implications is crucial for achieving a higher band score in your IELTS exam. This article delves into the nuances of “as approved by,” exploring its meaning, grammatical structure, and providing you with the tools to utilize it effectively in your writing.
Let’s examine a few examples of how “as approved by” might appear in different sections of the IELTS exam:
Example 1: IELTS Reading
“The company implemented new safety regulations, as approved by the National Health and Safety Board.”
Analysis: Here, “as approved by” clarifies that the new regulations were officially endorsed by a higher authority.
Example 2: IELTS Writing Task 1 (Report)
“The graph illustrates the projected growth of renewable energy sources over the next decade, as approved by the International Energy Agency.”
Analysis: In this context, “as approved by” adds credibility to the data presented, indicating it comes from a reputable source.
Deconstructing “As Approved By”
Meaning and Usage
“As approved by” is a prepositional phrase that signifies an action or document has received official consent or authorization from a designated individual or entity. It is often used to:
- Establish Authority: It highlights the validity and legitimacy of a decision or document.
- Indicate Compliance: It demonstrates adherence to rules, regulations, or guidelines.
- Provide Clarity: It eliminates ambiguity by specifying the approving party.
Grammatical Structure
- “As”: Acts as a conjunction, connecting the main clause (action/document) with the approval clause.
- “Approved”: The past participle of the verb “approve”, indicating a completed action.
- “By”: A preposition indicating the agent of the approval.
IELTS Relevance
While “as approved by” itself might not be a direct test point, its correct usage showcases your command of:
- Formal Language: Essential for Writing Task 1 (Essays and Reports)
- Complex Structures: Demonstrating grammatical range and accuracy.
- Vocabulary: Using precise language to convey meaning effectively.
Mastering “As Approved By” for IELTS
Formula and Application:
[Action/Document] + as approved by + [Approving Authority]
Examples:
- Writing Task 1: “The budget allocation for infrastructure projects, as approved by the city council, reflects a strong commitment to urban development.”
- Writing Task 2: “Some argue that censorship, even when as approved by a majority, can stifle creativity and freedom of expression.”
Tips for Effective Usage:
- Formal Contexts: Primarily use “as approved by” in formal writing tasks.
- Credible Authorities: Ensure the approving authority is relevant and carries weight.
- Conciseness: If clear from the context, you can omit “as approved by” and simply mention the approving authority. (e.g., “The city council-approved budget…”)
Avoiding Common Mistakes:
- Informal Language: Avoid using casual equivalents like “OK’d by” or “given the green light by” in formal writing.
- Dangling Modifiers: Make sure the phrase clearly modifies the correct noun or action.
Enhancing Your Writing with Similar Structures
To further elevate your writing, consider using similar phrases that convey authorization or agreement:
- “As per”: To indicate something is done according to a particular rule or instruction.
- “In accordance with”: Emphasizes compliance with rules or regulations.
- “Subject to the approval of”: Highlights that something is contingent on receiving permission.
You can find more examples of formal language usage in authentic IELTS materials on websites like https://www.ielts.net/had-it-been-under-budget-we-would-have-approved/. Practice incorporating these phrases into your writing to improve your grammatical range and precision.
Conclusion
“As approved by,” though a seemingly simple phrase, plays a significant role in establishing formality, clarity, and authority in your IELTS writing. By understanding its proper usage and exploring similar structures, you can demonstrate a higher level of language proficiency and boost your chances of achieving your desired band score. Remember to practice consistently and pay close attention to the nuances of formal language to excel in your IELTS exam.