ratify
To ratify means to give formal consent to a treaty, contract, or agreement, making it officially valid. Think of it as the final, decisive "stamp of approval" that turns a proposed plan into a binding law or commitment. It is the moment when all the preliminary discussions end and the rules officially go into effect. You will typically hear this word in political, legal, or corporate contexts. It is rarely used in casual conversation; you wouldn't say you "ratified" plans to go to the movies. Instead, it is used for high-stakes situations like international treaties, amendments to a constitution, or significant union contracts.
In conversation
Corporate Boardroom
Has the board ratified the new merger agreement yet?
Has the board ratified the new merger agreement yet?
Not yet, they are still reviewing the liability clauses.
Not yet, they are still reviewing the liability clauses.
Used here to describe the official finalization of a business contract.
Political News
The senate is expected to ratify the climate treaty by Friday.
The senate is expected to ratify the climate treaty by Friday.
It’s a major step toward global cooperation.
It’s a major step toward global cooperation.
Typical usage regarding international laws or treaties.
Examples
The committee needs time to ratify the rules.
The committee needs time to ratify the rules.
All member nations must ratify the amendment before it becomes law.
All member nations must ratify the amendment before it becomes law.
The union members voted overwhelmingly to ratify the new collective bargaining agreement.
The union members voted overwhelmingly to ratify the new collective bargaining agreement.
