The phrase "on approval" is commonly used to refer to a product or service that is being evaluated or tested before final purchase. The spelling of this phrase follows the basic English pronunciation rules, with the /ɒn/ sound represented by the letter "o" and the /əˈpruːvəl/ sound using a combination of letters to represent the stressed syllable (/pruː/) and an unstressed vowel sound (/əl/). The IPA phonetic transcription for "on approval" is /ɒn əˈpruːvəl/.
"On approval" refers to the practice of allowing a customer to test or preview a product or service before committing to a purchase. It is commonly used in the retail industry or when purchasing items through mail order.
When something is offered on approval, it means that the customer has the opportunity to try or assess the item before deciding whether they want to keep it. This arrangement serves as a form of assurance or protection for the buyer, ensuring that they are satisfied with the product's quality, function, or suitability for their needs.
Typically, products available on approval are sent to customers who have expressed an interest in purchasing them. The customer can then use, evaluate, or examine the item for a certain period, often specified by the seller. During this trial period, the customer may decide to purchase the product by making the necessary payment. However, if they are not satisfied, they can return the item to the seller, often in its original condition, avoiding any obligation or financial responsibility.
The concept of "on approval" benefits customers by allowing them to make informed decisions without the risk of being stuck with an item they are dissatisfied with. It also demonstrates the seller's confidence in their product, as they are willing to let customers try it out before making a final commitment.
The term "on approval" originated in the early 19th century and has its roots in commerce. The word "approval" comes from the Old French word "aprouver", which in turn comes from the Latin word "approbare", meaning "to approve" or "to sanction".
In the context of business transactions, "on approval" typically refers to an agreement between a seller and a potential buyer. It means that the buyer has the opportunity to examine or use the product before making a final decision to purchase it. If the buyer is satisfied with the item, they can approve the purchase and complete the transaction. However, if the buyer is not satisfied, they can return the item without obligation.
Overall, the etymology of "on approval" reflects the concept of granting permission or sanctioning the examination of a product before committing to a purchase.