(PW) give permission to go ahead with a project
We were finally given the green light to begin setting up the new project.
(idiommeaning) verb, to give someone approval to do something
The employee asked the boss to give him the green light to take his vacation in December.
A: I can’t believe that she made this mistake!
B: I know! We’re going to lose thousands of dollars!
A: Who gave her the green light to do this?
B: I have no idea!
Father #1: Are you planning on giving your son the green light to go to Canada to study English?
Father #2: Yeah, I want him to speak well, so I’m going to let him go.
(free) to give permission for someone to do something or for something to happen (often + to do sth)
They've just been given the green light to build two new supermarkets in the region. (often + to ) The local prefect has given the green light to the dam at Serre de la Fare.
to give permission for something to happen
She's waiting for her doctor to give her the green light to play in Saturday's game.
Usage notes: also used in the form give a green light: The House of Representatives gave a green light to oil exploration off the East Coast.
