* Formal: The scientist's groundbreaking research earned her the approbation of her peers.
* Informal: Despite the initial skepticism, the young entrepreneur's business plan eventually won the approbation of the investors.
* Figurative: The author's latest novel was met with widespread approbation, solidifying her status as a literary giant.
Approbation signifies strong approval or praise, often from a formal or authoritative source. It's a more formal word than "approval" or "praise" and is usually used to describe something significant.