permission
14 synonyms and 2 antonyms for permission, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Formal or informal consent for something to happen.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use permission
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin permissio, from permittere ("to allow").
Full origin of permission →Frequently asked questions
What does “permission” mean?
The word “permission” means formal or informal consent for something to happen. In plain terms, official or personal approval to do something, or the access rules on a computer file.
How do you pronounce “permission”?
“Permission” is pronounced puh-MIHSH-uhn (/pəɹˈmɪʃ.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “permission” in a sentence?
Here is “permission” used in a sentence: “You need permission from your manager to work from home.”
What is another word for “permission”?
Words with a similar meaning to “permission” include allowance, authority, authorization, clearance, consent and leave.
What is the opposite of “permission”?
The opposite of “permission” — its antonyms — are prohibition and sanction.
What part of speech is “permission”?
“Permission” is a noun.
Where does the word “permission” come from?
The word “permission” comes from Latin. From Latin permissio, from permittere ("to allow").
Is “permission” a common word?
“Permission” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between permission and consent?
Permission is formal or informal approval granted by someone with the authority to allow something — a parent, a boss, a landlord. Consent is personal agreement to something that affects you, often carrying legal weight in areas like medicine or contracts. You ask for permission; you give consent.
What is the difference between permission and a permit?
Permission is the abstract act of allowing something — spoken or written approval. A permit is a physical or official document that records that permission, such as a parking permit or building permit. In short, a permit is formal, documented permission issued by an authority, usually for regulated activities.
What are the types of permission?
Permission can be express or implied. Express permission is stated directly, either verbally or in writing. Implied permission is understood from circumstances or behavior, without being spoken. It can also be described as formal, such as an official authorization, or informal, like a friend saying it's fine to borrow something.
What is an example of permission?
Asking a teacher, 'May I leave early?' and being told yes is permission. So is a landlord agreeing you can keep a pet, or a written note allowing a child to go on a school trip. Each is consent for something to happen, granted by someone with the authority to allow it.