Warrant: meaning, definitions and examples

A legal document issued by a judge or magistrate, allowing the police to take a particular action like searching a place or making an arrest.

• The police obtained a warrant to search his house
• The judge issued an arrest warrant for the suspect

General permission or power given to someone to do something, often in an official, formal, or written manner.

• She got authorization from her boss to work from home
• You need authorization to access this area

An official document giving someone permission to do something, typically related to activities that are regulated by law, such as building, parking, or holding an event.

• The city granted a permit for the street festival
• You need a permit to park here overnight

A document granting permission to do something, typically issued by a government or other authority, often in the context of driving, business, or professional activities.

• He renewed his driver's license last week
• The restaurant has a license to serve alcohol

Can be used to indicate justification or necessity without formal authority, similar to 'justify'.

• The teacher’s approach to the topic warrants praise.
• This situation warrants a closer look.

Appropriate when explaining or proving why an action or decision is reasonable or necessary.

• Can you justify the expense of this project?
• He couldn't justify his lateness to the meeting.

Used to discuss qualifications or worthiness, often in professional or academic settings.

• Her proposal merits further consideration.
• This student’s hard work merits praise.

Often used to indicate that someone has earned something through their actions or qualities.

• She worked hard all year, so she deserves a vacation.
• He doesn’t deserve such harsh criticism.