formal10K+

Ratification

UK //ˌrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən//US //ˌrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən//

Definition

The official approval of a treaty or agreement.

In simple words: Approval or agreement to a decision or treaty.

Examples

  • The ratification of the treaty was celebrated by both nations.
  • Many citizens participated in the ratification process for the new law.
  • The ratification of the amendment required a two-thirds majority.
  • Ratification can often take several months to complete.
  • The committee discussed the ratification of various international agreements.

Usage notes

Used in legal or political contexts, often referring to treaties and agreements. It is not suitable for casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

ratification + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'ratify-ication' as the process of turning a ratified decision into law.

Collocations

  • ratification process
  • formal ratification
  • ratification vote
  • international ratification
  • ratification agreement

Synonyms

  • approval
  • confirmation
  • endorsement
  • agreement
  • validation

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'ratify' - remember 'ratification' is the noun form.
  • Omitting the preposition 'of' when describing something being ratified.
  • Using it in informal contexts where simpler words would suffice.