permit

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive or intransitiveformal

   To allow something to happen or someone to do something, especially under a rule or by official approval.

   Grammar: Often takes an object: permit smoking; intransitive in 'weather permitting'. The noun is stressed on the first syllable (PER-mit).

   Patterns

   • permit something
   • permit someone to do something
   • permit of something

   The rules do not permit visitors after nine o'clock.

   The school permits students to bring calculators.

   We will start the picnic at noon, weather permitting.

2. 2verbtransitiveformal

   To make something possible or give it the chance to occur.

   Grammar: Takes an object, often an abstract thing: the design permits easy cleaning.

   Patterns

   • permit something
   • permit someone to do something

   A wide doorway permits easy access for wheelchairs.

   The software permits users to undo any change.

   Her schedule permitted only a short visit.

3. 3nouncountable

   An official document that gives you the right to do or have something.

   Grammar: Stress falls on the first syllable (PER-mit): you need a permit to park here.

   Patterns

   • a permit for something
   • a permit to do something

   You need a permit to build a fence here.

   He applied for a work permit last month.

   The ranger checked each hiker's camping permit.

Word forms

Common combinations

permit access

The key card permits access to the lab.

weather permitting

We'll sail on Saturday, weather permitting.

apply for a permit

You must apply for a permit before hosting the event.

parking permit

Residents get a free parking permit.

issue a permit

The council issued a permit for the street fair.

not permitted

Photography is not permitted inside the gallery.

Synonyms and how they differ

allow

Allow is the everyday word and fits informal situations, whereas permit sounds more official.

authorize

Authorize means to give formal power or approval, usually by someone in charge.

let

Let is casual and conversational; permit is formal.

license

As a noun, a license is a longer-term official right, often paid for, while a permit may cover a single activity.

Opposites

Word family

permission noun

the act of allowing

permissible adjective

allowed

permissive adjective

allowing a lot of freedom

permitted adjective

allowed

Commonly confused: permit or submit? permit or promise?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “permit”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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