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Definitions

permit

[per-mit, pur-mit, per-mit] / pərˈmɪt, ˈpɜr mɪt, pərˈmɪt /




Usage

What are other ways to say permit?

Both verbs that imply granting or conceding the right of someone to do something, permit and allow are often interchangeable, but permit is the more positive of the two. Permit suggests formal or implied assent or authorization. Allow implies complete absence of an attempt, or even an intent, to hinder. Let is the familiar, conversational term for both allow and permit.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It does not, for example, permit wall hangings that don’t actually exist.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Now Brussels has updated its rules after the UK's departure, allowing all EU countries to permit non-citrus spreads to be marketed as "marmalade" from June.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

When he returned a few days later, the representative guided him to the SCE website, then told him he’d next have to get the permit from the county.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Under the EU’s emissions-trading system, or ETS, companies whose operations emit climate-changing carbon dioxide must pay for a permit for each metric ton they emit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

He was much too meticulous an artist to permit so unsteady a hand to apply even a drop of paint to his hallways.

From "In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" by Bette Bao Lord