Permission vs Permit: Which Should You Use In Writing?

Are you confused about when to use “permission” and when to use “permit”? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. These two words are often used interchangeably, but there are slight differences in their meanings. In this article, we’ll explore those differences and help clarify when to use each word.

First off, it’s important to note that both “permission” and “permit” can be used as nouns or verbs. However, “permission” is more commonly used as a noun, while “permit” is more commonly used as a verb.

So, which one is the proper word? Well, it depends on the context. In general, “permission” is used when someone is given the authority or right to do something, while “permit” is used when someone is granted a license or official document allowing them to do something.

For example, if you want to go on a field trip with your child’s class, you might need to get permission from the teacher. This means that the teacher is giving you the authority to go on the trip. On the other hand, if you want to build a deck on your property, you might need to get a permit from the city. This means that the city is granting you a license to build the deck.

It’s important to note that there can be some overlap between the two words. For example, if you need to get a permit to do something, you might also need to get permission from someone else. Or, if someone gives you permission to do something, you might still need to get a permit in order to do it legally.

Now that we’ve established the differences between “permission” and “permit”, let’s dive deeper into each word and explore some common uses and examples.

Define Permission

Permission refers to the act of granting someone the authority or right to do something. It is a formal or informal approval given by an individual or an organization to another person, group, or entity to perform a particular action or activity. Permission can be explicit or implicit, and it can be granted verbally or in writing.

Define Permit

A permit is a legal document that grants authorization or approval to an individual or an organization to perform a particular action or activity. It is an official document issued by a government agency or regulatory body that outlines the terms and conditions for the activity that is being permitted. A permit is usually required for activities that are potentially hazardous or have the potential to impact the environment or public safety.

Here are some examples of activities that may require a permit:

• Building construction or renovation
• Environmental remediation or cleanup
• Transportation of hazardous materials
• Operation of heavy machinery or equipment

Permits can be temporary or permanent, and they may have specific conditions or restrictions attached to them. Failure to obtain a required permit can result in fines, legal action, or other penalties.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the right word in a sentence can make a big difference in the meaning of the sentence. This section will provide guidance on how to properly use the words “permission” and “permit” in a sentence.

How To Use “Permission” In A Sentence

The word “permission” is a noun that means the act of allowing someone to do something. Here are some examples of how to use “permission” in a sentence:

• She asked for permission to leave the room.
• The teacher gave permission for the students to go on a field trip.
• He did not have permission to access the confidential files.

As seen in the examples above, “permission” is typically used when someone is allowed to do something or when someone is granted access to something.

How To Use “Permit” In A Sentence

The word “permit” is a verb that means to allow something to happen or to give someone permission to do something. Here are some examples of how to use “permit” in a sentence:

• The city does not permit parking on the street during rush hour.
• The company policy does not permit employees to use their phones during work hours.
• The museum permits photography, but without flash.

As seen in the examples above, “permit” is typically used when something is allowed to happen or when someone is given permission to do something.

More Examples Of Permission & Permit Used In Sentences

As we explore the differences between permission and permit, it’s helpful to see how they are used in everyday language. Here are some examples of how permission and permit can be used in sentences:

Examples Of Using Permission In A Sentence

• My boss gave me permission to leave work early today.
• You need permission from the city council to build a new house.
• He asked for permission to use the restroom during the exam.
• The teacher gave her students permission to work in groups for the project.
• She didn’t have permission to access the confidential files.
• Parents must give permission for their children to participate in the field trip.
• The security guard granted me permission to enter the building.
• Without permission, you cannot park in this lot.
• She requested permission to take a day off from work.
• He was denied permission to board the plane without proper identification.

Examples Of Using Permit In A Sentence

• The city issued a permit for the construction of the new bridge.
• His driver’s license permitted him to operate a motorcycle.
• You need a permit to hunt in this area.
• The company was granted a permit to operate a factory in the industrial zone.
• The building’s permit expired, so construction had to be halted.
• The permit allows you to park in the designated area for up to two hours.
• She was required to obtain a permit before hosting a public event in the park.
• The permit fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
• He forgot to renew his permit to carry a concealed weapon.
• The permit application process can take up to six weeks to complete.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

In the English language, words with similar meanings are often used interchangeably. However, this can lead to confusion and incorrect usage. One such pair of words that is often confused is permission and permit. Here are some common mistakes people make when using these words interchangeably, along with explanations of why they are incorrect:

Using “Permission” As A Verb

One common mistake is using “permission” as a verb. For example, saying “I need to permission to leave early” is incorrect. The correct verb to use in this sentence is “get” or “ask for.” The correct sentence would be “I need to ask for permission to leave early.” Using “permission” as a verb is incorrect because it is a noun.

Using “Permit” As A Noun

Another common mistake is using “permit” as a noun. For example, saying “I need to get a permission slip” is incorrect. The correct noun to use in this sentence is “permit.” The correct sentence would be “I need to get a permit slip.” Using “permit” as a noun is incorrect because it is a verb.

Using “Permission” And “Permit” Interchangeably

Finally, one of the most common mistakes is using “permission” and “permit” interchangeably. While they have similar meanings, they are not the same thing. “Permission” is the act of allowing someone to do something, while “permit” is a document that allows someone to do something. For example, saying “I need to get permission to park here” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “I need to get a parking permit to park here.”

Here are some tips on how to avoid making these mistakes in the future:

• Remember that “permission” is a noun and “permit” is a verb.
• Use “get” or “ask for” with “permission,” and “get” or “apply for” with “permit.”
• Remember that “permission” is the act of allowing someone to do something, while “permit” is a document that allows someone to do something.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “permission” and “permit,” context is key. Both words refer to the act of allowing or granting something, but they are used in different situations and carry slightly different connotations.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some different scenarios where the choice between “permission” and “permit” might vary:

• Legal documents: In legal documents such as contracts or licenses, “permit” is often used to refer to a formal grant of authorization. For example, a building permit is a legal document that grants permission to construct a building. In this context, “permission” might be seen as less formal or legally binding.
• Social situations: In social situations, “permission” is often used to refer to a more informal granting of authorization. For example, a parent might give their child permission to attend a sleepover at a friend’s house. In this context, “permit” might sound overly formal or bureaucratic.
• Business settings: In business settings, the choice between “permission” and “permit” might depend on the level of formality or authority involved. For example, a manager might give an employee permission to take a day off work, while a higher-level executive might issue a permit for a company-wide event. In this context, the choice between the two words might reflect the hierarchy or chain of command within the organization.

Overall, the choice between “permission” and “permit” depends on the specific context in which they are used. By understanding the nuances of each word, you can choose the one that best fits the situation at hand.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using permission and permit may seem straightforward, there are some exceptions where they might not apply. Here are some explanations and examples for each case:

1. Legal Terminology

In legal terminology, permission and permit may have different meanings. For instance, permission refers to the act of giving consent or approval, while permit refers to an official document that allows someone to do something. In this case, the two terms cannot be used interchangeably.

2. Idiomatic Expressions

There are some idiomatic expressions where permission and permit are used interchangeably. For example, “I’ll permit it” and “I’ll give you permission” mean the same thing. However, in formal writing, it is best to use the correct term to avoid confusion.

3. Contextual Usage

Context plays a crucial role in determining whether to use permission or permit. For instance, in some cases, the context may require the use of one term over the other. For example, “I need your permission to enter the building” is correct, while “I need your permit to enter the building” is incorrect.

4. Regional Differences

There may be some regional differences in the use of permission and permit. For example, in British English, permit is used more commonly than permission, while in American English, permission is used more frequently.

5. Colloquial Usage

Colloquially, permission and permit can be used interchangeably. For example, “Can I permit you to leave?” is a common expression in some regions, although it is not grammatically correct.

It is important to note that while there may be exceptions to the rules for using permission and permit, it is always best to use the correct term in formal writing to avoid confusion and ensure clarity.

Practice Exercises

Now that we have discussed the differences between permission and permit, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises that will help you improve your understanding and use of these two words in sentences. Make sure to read each sentence carefully and choose the correct word to fill in the blank.

Exercise 1

Can you please _______ me to leave early today?

• Permission
• Permit

Answer: Permission

Explanation: In this sentence, we are asking for someone’s approval or consent to leave early, so we need to use the word “permission.”

Exercise 2

The company requires all employees to have a valid _______ to enter the building.

• Permission
• Permit

Answer: Permit

Explanation: In this sentence, we are talking about a document that gives someone the right or authority to do something, so we need to use the word “permit.”

Exercise 3

My parents never _______ me to stay out past midnight when I was in high school.

• Permission
• Permit

Answer: Permitted

Explanation: In this sentence, we are talking about being allowed or not allowed to do something, so we need to use the past tense of “permit,” which is “permitted.”

Exercise 4

Can you _______ me to use your computer for a few minutes?

• Permission
• Permit

Answer: Permit

Explanation: In this sentence, we are asking for someone’s authorization or approval to use their computer, so we need to use the word “permit.”

Make sure to review your answers and explanations to each exercise to ensure that you fully understand the proper use of permission and permit in sentences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to understand the difference between “permission” and “permit” in order to use them correctly in written and spoken language. While both words refer to the act of allowing or giving consent, “permission” is the noun form and “permit” is the verb form.

When using “permission,” it is important to remember that it is a noun and should be used to refer to the act of allowing something. On the other hand, “permit” is a verb and should be used to describe the act of giving permission.

Additionally, “permit” can also refer to a physical document that allows someone to do something, such as a building permit or a work permit. It is important to use the correct form of the word in the appropriate context to avoid confusion or misunderstandings.

Overall, understanding the nuances of language use and grammar is crucial for effective communication. By continuing to learn and improve our language skills, we can become better writers, speakers, and communicators.