In 15 Seconds
- Officially allowing someone to do a specific action.
- Used when an authority figure says 'yes' to a request.
- More formal than 'let' but common in daily life.
Meaning
This phrase means officially telling someone they are allowed to do something. It is like handing over a green light or a key to a locked door.
Key Examples
3 of 6At the office
My manager gave permission for me to work from home today.
منحني مديري الإذن للعمل من المنزل اليوم.
A child asking a parent
Mom gave permission for a sleepover this weekend!
أعطت أمي الإذن لإقامة حفلة مبيت هذا الأسبوع!
Legal or formal document
The city council gave permission to start the construction.
منح مجلس المدينة الإذن ببدء البناء.
Cultural Background
In the US, 'giving permission' is often a sign of a collaborative work environment.
Uncountable Noun
Never use 'a' or 'an' before permission.
In 15 Seconds
- Officially allowing someone to do a specific action.
- Used when an authority figure says 'yes' to a request.
- More formal than 'let' but common in daily life.
What It Means
Give permission is a solid, reliable way to say someone said 'yes' to a request. It is more than just a casual 'okay.' It implies that there is a rule or a boundary. By using this phrase, you show that someone in charge has cleared the path. Think of it as the formal version of 'letting someone do something.'
How To Use It
You usually use it with a person or an authority figure as the subject. For example, 'The boss gave permission for the party.' You can follow it with to plus a verb or for plus a noun. It sounds polished and clear. It is a great phrase for when you want to be specific about who allowed what.
When To Use It
Use this in professional settings or when discussing rules. It is perfect for emails, school contexts, or legal situations. If you are at work and need to leave early, you ask your manager to give permission. If you are renting an apartment, the landlord gives permission for you to have a cat. It feels official and secure.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase with your best friends over pizza. Saying 'My friend gave permission for me to eat a slice' sounds like you are in a weird contract. In casual moments, just use 'let' or 'said it was fine.' Also, do not use it for things that do not require authority. You do not give permission for the sun to shine!
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, 'permission' is often tied to privacy and individual rights. People value their personal space and property. Asking for and giving permission is seen as a sign of respect. It shows you acknowledge someone else's authority or ownership. It is a polite way to navigate social boundaries without being pushy.
Common Variations
You might hear grant permission in very formal documents. In everyday talk, people often say give the go-ahead or give the green light. These are more colorful and fun. If someone is being difficult, they might refuse to give permission. This sounds a bit stern, like a movie villain or a very strict teacher.
Usage Notes
This is a neutral-to-formal collocation. It is perfectly safe for emails, meetings, and talking to teachers or parents, but might feel slightly 'stiff' in very relaxed social settings.
Uncountable Noun
Never use 'a' or 'an' before permission.
Examples
6My manager gave permission for me to work from home today.
منحني مديري الإذن للعمل من المنزل اليوم.
Professional use regarding company policy.
Mom gave permission for a sleepover this weekend!
أعطت أمي الإذن لإقامة حفلة مبيت هذا الأسبوع!
Common family dynamic regarding rules.
The city council gave permission to start the construction.
منح مجلس المدينة الإذن ببدء البناء.
Very formal authority context.
I'll give permission to the delivery guy to leave the package inside.
سأعطي الإذن لعامل التوصيل بترك الطرد في الداخل.
Practical use in daily logistics.
I didn't give permission for my cat to sleep on my face, but he did it anyway.
لم أمنح قطتي الإذن للنوم على وجهي، لكنها فعلت ذلك على أي حال.
Using formal language for a silly situation.
You don't need to give permission for others to judge your life choices.
لست بحاجة لمنح الآخرين الإذن للحكم على خيارات حياتك.
Metaphorical use about personal power.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The manager ____ ____ for us to leave early.
Permission is uncountable, so no article is used.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesThe manager ____ ____ for us to leave early.
Permission is uncountable, so no article is used.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, permission is uncountable.
Related Phrases
give the green light
synonymTo give permission to proceed.
