The word ‘Ratify’ (Verb) means to formally approve, confirm, or give official consent to a decision, treaty, law, or agreement. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Ratify’ correctly in sentences.
Ratify Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Ratify, including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Ratify
Ratify means to formally approve or give official consent to a decision, treaty, law, or agreement. It’s the act of making something valid and legally binding by giving formal approval.
For example, after two countries negotiate a treaty, both sides must ratify it through their respective governments before it becomes enforceable. Similarly, organizations or groups might ratify a new policy or amendment by voting on it or signing an official document.
Definition
Ratify to approve and formally confirm an agreement, treaty, law, or decision making it official and legally valid. It’s commonly used in legal, governmental, and organizational contexts to signify the final step in a decision-making process that makes an agreement or resolution enforceable and recognized by all parties involved.
Etymology
- The word ratify comes from the Middle French ratifier, meaning “to confirm or approve.”
- It’s based on the Medieval Latin ratificare, which comes from the Latin ratus (meaning “fixed, settled, or approved”) and facere (meaning “to make or do”).
Example Sentences
- The government will ratify the international agreement next week, making it legally binding for all member states.
- The board voted unanimously to ratify the new company policy after months of discussion.
- Once both countries ratify the treaty, trade between them will officially resume under the new terms.
Ratify Synonyms
- Approve
- Confirm
- Validate
- Endorse
- Authorize
- Sanction
- Affirm
- Formalize
- Legalize
- Accept
Ratify Antonyms
- Reject
- Veto
- Refuse
- Annul
- Cancel
- Invalidate
- Disapprove
- Revoke
FAQs about Ratify
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Ratify”
1. What does “ratify” mean?
“Ratify” means to officially approve or confirm a decision, treaty, law, or agreement, making it valid and legally enforceable.
2. Where is “ratify” commonly used?
“Ratify” is commonly used in legal, political, and organizational contexts—such as when governments approve treaties or when boards of directors confirm new policies.
3. Is “ratify” always a formal process?
Yes, “ratify” typically refers to formal processes that involve official approval or confirmation by an authorized body.
4. Can “ratify” be used in casual speech?
While it’s more common in formal contexts, “ratify” can be used in casual conversation to mean giving final approval or acceptance to an idea, plan, or decision.
5. What’s the difference between “ratify” and “approve”?
“Approve” is a broader term that can mean accepting or agreeing with something informally or formally. “Ratify” specifically means giving formal and official approval, often making something legally binding.