license

[ˈlaɪsns]

license Definition

  • 1a permit from an authority to own or use something, do a particular thing, or carry on a trade (especially in alcoholic beverages)
  • 2the legal right to use a patent or copyrighted material

Using license: Examples

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

  • Example

    He applied for a license to sell alcohol.

  • Example

    She has a license to drive a car.

  • Example

    The company obtained a license to use the technology.

  • Example

    The software requires a valid license to operate.

license Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using license

  • to give someone permission or freedom to do something

    Example

    His parents gave him license to travel abroad after he graduated from college.

  • to obtain a legal right to use or own something

    Example

    The company decided to take out a license on the new technology.

  • a business or investment that generates a lot of profit with little effort or risk

    Example

    Investing in real estate can be like having a license to print money if you do it right.

Phrases with license

  • a legal document that authorizes a couple to get married

    Example

    They went to the courthouse to apply for a marriage license.

  • driver's license

    a legal document that authorizes a person to drive a vehicle

    Example

    You need a driver's license to operate a car in this state.

  • a legal document that authorizes a person or business to sell alcoholic beverages

    Example

    The restaurant lost its liquor license due to repeated violations.

Origins of license

from Old French 'licence', meaning 'freedom'

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Summary: license in Brief

The term 'license' [ˈlaɪsns] refers to a permit or legal right to own, use, or do something, such as a driver's license or a liquor license. It can also refer to the legal right to use patented or copyrighted material. Phrases like 'marriage license' and 'driver's license' are common, while idioms like 'give someone license to do something' denote permission or freedom, and 'license to print money' imply a profitable business or investment.

How do native speakers use this expression?