to allow something to happen or to give permission for something, an official document that allows you to do something or go somewhere

give someone the green light, get the go-ahead, cut someone some slack

work permit, parking permit, building permit

Formal and Informal Expressions of permit

In different contexts, you can replace 'permit' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'authorize, entitle' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'let, allow' is a commonplace synonym.

permit: Explore its Definition & Usage

permit Definition

1to allow something to happen or to give permission for something
2an official document that allows you to do something or go somewhere

Using permit: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "permit" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The school does not permit students to use cell phones during class.
Example
I need to obtain a permit before I can build a fence on my property.
Example
The company was granted a permit to drill for oil in the Arctic.
Example
The city council denied the permit for the construction of a new shopping mall.

permit Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for permit

Antonyms for permit

Idioms Using permit

give someone the green light
to give someone permission to do something
Example
The boss gave us the green light to start working on the project.
get the go-ahead
to receive permission to do something
Example
We finally got the go-ahead to start the construction project.
cut someone some slack
to allow someone to do something without being too critical or demanding
Example
I know he's made some mistakes, but you should cut him some slack.

Phrases with permit

work permit
an official document that allows a foreign national to work legally in a country
Example
She applied for a work permit so she could stay in the country and work as a nurse.
parking permit
an official document that allows you to park your vehicle in a particular place
Example
You need a parking permit to park in this lot.
building permit
an official document that allows you to build a structure on your property
Example
He had to apply for a building permit before he could start construction on his house.

Origins of permit

from Latin 'permittere', meaning 'let pass, allow to go through'

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Summary: permit in Brief

The term 'permit' [pərˈmɪt] refers to allowing or giving permission for something to happen. It can be used as a verb, such as 'The school does not permit students to use cell phones during class,' or as a noun, such as 'I need to obtain a permit before I can build a fence on my property.' 'Permit' extends into phrases like 'work permit,' and idioms like 'give someone the green light,' denoting permission, and 'cut someone some slack,' implying leniency.