Licence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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licence
[ˈlaɪs(ə)ns ]
Definitions
legal document
A licence is an official document that gives someone permission to do or use something.
Synonyms
authorization, certification, permit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| licence |
Typically used in British English, referring to an official document that allows you to do something, especially driving or operating a business.
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| permit |
Refers to an official document or permission, usually granted by a government or authoritative body, for activities such as building, hunting, or parking.
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| authorization |
Used when referring to official permission or approval, often in a formal or institutional context.
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| certification |
This term is used for an official document that proves you have specific skills or qualifications, usually after completing training or an exam.
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Examples of usage
- You need a valid driving licence to drive a car.
- She obtained a licence to sell alcohol in her bar.
grant permission
To licence means to give official permission for something to happen or be done.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| licence |
A official document that gives permission to do or own something, often related to activities like driving, fishing, or operating a business.
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| authorize |
To give official permission for someone to do something, often used in contexts involving power or authority.
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| permit |
A formal, often governmental authorization document that allows someone to carry out a specific action, often used for specific actions like construction or parking.
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| approve |
To officially accept or allow something, often after careful consideration and review. Common in formal and bureaucratic settings.
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Examples of usage
- The city council will licence the new restaurant to operate.
- The government agency licences companies to produce certain goods.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Usage
- Licences can be required for various activities, including driving, selling alcohol, and operating a business.
- Different jurisdictions might issue different kinds of licences, depending on local laws and regulations.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, a licence to marry is highly significant and often comes with traditional ceremonies.
- Certain professions, like medicine or law, require specific licences to ensure that practitioners meet professional standards.
Pop Culture
- In movies and games, characters often have to obtain a licence to take part in thrilling activities, like racing or piloting aircraft.
- The phrase 'license to kill' is famously used in spy films, emphasizing the idea of having special privileges.
Technology and Digital Rights
- In the tech world, software often comes with a licence that stipulates how it can be used or shared.
- Creative Commons licences allow artists to share their works while retaining some rights, highlighting the evolving nature of permission in the digital age.
Origin of 'licence'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'licence' comes from the Latin 'licentia', which means 'freedom' or 'permission'.
- In Middle English, it was spelled as 'licence' and was used in the context of granting permission.
The word 'licence' originated from the Latin word 'licentia', meaning 'freedom' or 'permission'. In the Middle Ages, licences were granted by the king or a higher authority to certain individuals for various activities. Over time, the spelling evolved to 'licence' in British English and 'license' in American English.