Permit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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permit

[ˈpəːmɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal

An official document or certificate that gives someone permission to do something.

Synonyms

authorization, certificate, license.

Examples of usage

  • You will need a permit to enter the building.
  • She applied for a permit to build a new house.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

To allow someone to do something, especially by an official document or agreement.

Synonyms

allow, authorize, grant.

Examples of usage

  • The school does not permit students to use phones during class.
  • The company permits flexible working hours for employees.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In law, a permit is often required for activities like construction, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Different types of permits exist, including building permits, business permits, and environmental permits, each serving a specific legal purpose.

Cultural Significance

  • Various cultures have unique traditions that involve giving permissions, like asking for parental approval before a wedding.
  • In some places, permits are a sign of trust from authorities to individuals, allowing freedom to pursue activities.

Psychology

  • Research shows that when people seek permission, it can reduce anxiety and build confidence in their choices.
  • Children often test boundaries, and permission can help them understand limits and appropriate behavior.

Technology

  • In software, permissions must be set for users to access certain features, similar to getting permission to enter a space.
  • Apps often request permissions to use your location, camera, or contacts, drawing a parallel to real-life permits.

Origin of 'permit'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'permit' comes from the Latin 'permittere,' meaning 'to allow' or 'to let go.'
  • It entered Middle English during the 14th century, originally meaning to allow or to send away.

The word "permit" originated from the Latin word "permittere", which means "to let pass, allow to go, hand over, commit to charge, entrust, yield, concede, grant, permit." The concept of permission has been essential in various societies to regulate activities and ensure order.


See also: permissible, permission, permissions, permissive, permissiveness, permitted, permitting.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,296, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.