permit

To let something happen or let someone do something.

• The rules permit visitors.
• We will walk if the weather permits.
• They permitted the children to play outside.

How to use it: permit someone to do something (They permitted us to leave early.); permit doing something (The building does not permit smoking.)

Similar words: allow, let

Opposites: forbid, prohibit

Common phrases: permit entry, permit someone to, permit smoking

To allow an activity under the law or official rules.

• The law permits this activity.
• These regulations permit the sale of locally grown food.
• The new rules permit licensed businesses to stay open later.

How to use it: permit someone to do something (The law permits licensed traders to sell fireworks.); permit doing something (Local rules permit parking here after six.)

Similar words: allow, authorize

Opposites: prohibit, forbid

Common phrases: permit something, permit the sale, permit construction

To give official approval for a project or activity, usually by issuing a document.

• The department permitted the project yesterday.
• Officials have permitted construction on the site.
• The agency permitted the development after reviewing its environmental impact.

Similar words: authorize, approve

Opposites: reject

Common phrases: permit a project, permit new construction, permit a development

To apply for or obtain official approval for a project or activity.

• We need to permit the project first.
• The developer spent months permitting the new housing scheme.
• They are permitting the site before construction begins.

Common phrases: permit a project, permit a development, permit the site

An official document that gives you permission to do something.

• You need a parking permit.
• He applied for a permit to work abroad.
• Have you renewed your fishing permit?

How to use it: permit to do something (You need a permit to fish in this lake.); permit for something (She applied for a permit for the extension.)

Similar words: license, authorization

Common phrases: work permit, parking permit, building permit