At the A1 level, 'permiso' is one of the most useful words you can learn for survival Spanish. You mainly use it in the phrase 'Con permiso' or simply 'Permiso'. Think of it as your 'magic word' for moving around. If you are in a supermarket and someone is blocking the aisle, you say 'Permiso'. If you need to get off a bus and people are in your way, you say 'Permiso'. It is also used to ask for basic things: '¿Me das permiso para ir al baño?' (Can I have permission to go to the bathroom?). At this stage, just remember that it is a masculine noun ('el permiso') and it is the polite way to say 'excuse me' when passing by people.
At the A2 level, you start using 'permiso' in more complete sentences with common verbs like 'pedir' (to ask for) and 'dar' (to give). You will learn to say 'Le pedí permiso a mi jefe' (I asked my boss for permission) or 'Mis padres no me dan permiso' (My parents don't give me permission). You also begin to see it in compound nouns like 'permiso de conducir' (driver's license) or 'permiso de trabajo' (work permit). You should focus on the difference between 'permiso' (to pass) and 'perdón' (to apologize). You are moving from just using the word as a gesture to using it as a functional part of your vocabulary.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'permiso' in a variety of social and semi-formal contexts. You will use it to discuss workplace rights, such as 'permiso de maternidad' (maternity leave) or 'permiso retribuido' (paid leave). You also learn more complex structures like 'sin el permiso de...' (without the permission of...). You begin to understand the nuance of using 'con su permiso' to sound more formal and respectful. You should also be aware of the plural 'permisos' in the context of technology, such as app permissions on your smartphone. Your usage should feel natural and integrated into your conversations about daily life and work.
At the B2 level, you use 'permiso' with more sophisticated verbs and in more abstract ways. You might use 'conceder un permiso' (to grant a permit) or 'denegar un permiso' (to deny a permit). You understand the legal weight of the word in administrative processes. You can distinguish between 'permiso', 'licencia', and 'autorización' depending on the context. For example, you know that a 'permiso de residencia' is a specific legal status. You also use the word in idiomatic expressions like 'con el permiso de la mesa' in a formal meeting. You are able to discuss the ethics or rules of permission in a debate or essay.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the legal and philosophical nuances of 'permiso'. You can use it in complex legal discussions, referring to 'permisos de explotación' (operating permits) or 'permisos penitenciarios' (prison furloughs). You understand how the word functions in literature and high-level journalism, where 'pedir la venia' or 'con el beneplácito de' might be used as more elegant alternatives. You are sensitive to regional variations in how 'permiso' vs 'licencia' is used across the Spanish-speaking world. You can use the word to express subtle degrees of authority and social deference in professional or academic environments.
At the C2 level, 'permiso' is a tool you use with total precision and stylistic flair. You can navigate the most complex bureaucratic systems, understanding every nuance of 'permisos administrativos'. You use the word in abstract philosophical contexts, discussing the 'permiso moral' (moral permission) or the socio-political implications of 'permisos estatales'. You can play with the word in wordplay or advanced rhetoric. You are fully aware of its historical etymology and how it has evolved in different legal systems (like the difference between Spanish and Mexican administrative law). Your use of 'permiso' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

permiso em 30 segundos

  • Permiso is the primary Spanish word for 'permission' and is used both formally for licenses and informally as a polite way to say 'excuse me'.
  • It is a masculine noun (el permiso) and is most commonly used with the verbs 'pedir' (to ask) and 'dar' (to give) in daily life.
  • When you need to pass someone in a crowd or leave a table, simply saying 'permiso' or 'con permiso' is the standard polite gesture.
  • In administrative contexts, it refers to official permits like 'permiso de conducir' (driver's license) or 'permiso de trabajo' (work permit).

The Spanish word permiso is a cornerstone of daily communication, serving both as a legal noun and a crucial social lubricant. At its most basic level, it translates to 'permission' in English, representing the act of allowing someone to do something. However, for a Spanish learner, its most frequent use is idiomatic and functional: it is the standard way to say 'excuse me' when you need to physically pass someone in a crowded space, leave a room, or interrupt a conversation. Unlike 'perdón' (which implies an apology for a mistake) or 'disculpa' (which is often used to get someone's attention), permiso focuses on the action of moving through or exiting a social space. It is inherently polite and signals respect for the personal space and time of others. In administrative contexts, it expands to mean a 'permit' or 'license,' such as a driver's license (permiso de conducir) or a work permit (permiso de trabajo).

Social Etiquette
When walking through a crowded market or getting off a bus, saying 'Con permiso' or simply 'Permiso' is the most natural way to ask people to step aside. It is less of a question and more of a polite notification of movement.
Authorization
Refers to the formal consent granted by an authority figure or an entity. 'Me dieron permiso para salir temprano' (They gave me permission to leave early).
Legal Documentation
In many Spanish-speaking countries, 'permiso' is the official term for various certificates or licenses required by the state.

¿Me das permiso para usar tu computadora?

Con permiso, necesito pasar al fondo del pasillo.

El permiso de construcción fue aprobado ayer.

Sin el permiso de mis padres, no puedo ir al viaje.

¿Tiene usted su permiso de residencia vigente?

Understanding the breadth of 'permiso' involves recognizing that it bridges the gap between formal legality and informal courtesy. In a legal sense, it is a document. In a social sense, it is a verbal gesture of goodwill. When you ask for 'permiso', you are acknowledging that your actions might affect another person and you are seeking their assent to proceed. This is why it is used so frequently in family settings, where children ask '¿Me das permiso?' to go out with friends, and in professional settings where employees request 'un permiso' for a day off. It is also found in the phrase 'permiso de conducir', which is the standard term for a driver's license in Spain, whereas in some Latin American countries, 'licencia' is more common, though 'permiso' is still understood as the authorization itself. Mastery of this word allows a speaker to navigate the physical and social landscape of the Spanish-speaking world with grace and clarity, ensuring they never appear rude or intrusive.

Using 'permiso' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical roles as a masculine noun and its idiomatic roles as an interjection. When used as a noun, it follows standard Spanish syntax: it can be the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or part of a prepositional phrase. The most common verb paired with 'permiso' is pedir (to ask for) and dar (to give). For example, 'Debes pedir permiso antes de entrar' (You must ask for permission before entering). Note that unlike English, where we 'ask permission', in Spanish we 'ask FOR permission' (pedir permiso), though the preposition 'por' is not used; 'pedir' already encompasses the 'for' aspect.

With Infinitives
Commonly followed by 'para' + infinitive. 'Tengo permiso para trabajar aquí' (I have permission to work here).
As an Interjection
Used alone or as 'Con permiso'. It doesn't require a verb when used this way. '¡Permiso! El tren está por salir'.
In the Plural
'Permisos' is used when referring to multiple authorizations or digital access rights. 'Configura los permisos de la aplicación'.

¿Me das permiso de ir a la fiesta?

El jefe no me dio permiso para tomar vacaciones en julio.

Entró en la propiedad sin permiso del dueño.

Furthermore, 'permiso' appears in specific administrative constructions. A 'permiso de maternidad' or 'permiso de paternidad' refers to parental leave. In these cases, the word functions as a 'leave of absence' or 'authorized time off'. It is also essential in the digital age; when your phone asks if an app can access your photos, it is asking for 'permisos'. In more formal writing, you might encounter 'con el permiso de la autoridad competente', a phrase used to indicate that all legal requirements have been met. The flexibility of 'permiso'—moving from a quick shout in a subway to a formal document in a courthouse—makes it one of the most versatile nouns in the Spanish language. Whether you are navigating a crowded sidewalk or a complex bureaucracy, 'permiso' is the key that unlocks the next step of your journey. Remember that while 'licencia' can sometimes be a synonym, 'permiso' is generally the broader, more common term for the act of allowing or the state of being allowed.

You will hear 'permiso' everywhere in the Spanish-speaking world, from the bustling streets of Madrid to the quiet offices of Buenos Aires. Its most visceral and frequent use is in public transportation. If you are on a crowded 'metro' or 'colectivo' and your stop is approaching, you don't need a long sentence; a firm but polite 'permiso' as you move toward the door will signal to others that they need to make way. In this context, it is almost a physical tool, clearing a path through the crowd. You will also hear it in every household. Children constantly ask their parents, '¿Me das permiso para salir?' or '¿Tengo permiso de ver la tele?'. It is the word that defines the boundary between what is allowed and what is forbidden within the family structure.

In the Office
'Pedir un permiso' often means asking for a day off or a few hours to go to the doctor. It is the standard term for a short-term leave of absence.
In Restaurants
Waiters will often say 'permiso' as they reach across the table to place a plate or remove silverware, ensuring they don't startle the guests.

¡Permiso! Voy a pasar con la bandeja caliente.

In legal and governmental settings, the word takes on a heavier tone. You will see it on signs: 'Prohibido el paso sin permiso' (No entry without permission). You will hear it in news reports concerning 'permisos de edificación' (building permits) or 'permisos de importación' (import licenses). Even in the world of computer science and IT, Spanish speakers use 'permisos' to refer to file permissions (read, write, execute). The word is so ubiquitous because it deals with the fundamental human concepts of access and authorization. Whether it is the physical access to a room, the social access to a conversation, or the legal access to a right, 'permiso' is the linguistic gatekeeper. In some regions, you might hear the diminutive 'permisito', used to sound even more polite or less intrusive, especially when squeezing through a very tight space or asking a small favor of a stranger.

The most common mistake English speakers make is confusing 'permiso' with 'perdón' or 'disculpa'. In English, 'excuse me' is a catch-all phrase. In Spanish, these are distinct. If you step on someone's foot, you say 'perdón' (I'm sorry). If you want to ask someone for the time, you say 'disculpe' (pardon me/get attention). But if you want to walk between two people talking, you MUST say 'permiso'. Using 'perdón' in that situation sounds like you are apologizing for a crime you haven't committed yet, while 'disculpe' sounds like you want to start a conversation rather than just pass through. Another frequent error is using 'permiso' as a verb. 'Permiso' is a noun; the verb is 'permitir'. You cannot say 'Yo permiso tú', you must say 'Yo te permito' or 'Yo te doy permiso'.

Permiso vs. Perdón
Use 'permiso' to pass; use 'perdón' when you've done something wrong.
Preposition Errors
Don't say 'permiso de ir', it is usually 'permiso para ir' when followed by an action, though 'permiso de' is used for nouns (permiso de conducir).

Incorrecto: Perdón, quiero pasar.
Correcto: Permiso, quiero pasar.

Another nuance is the use of 'licencia'. While 'permiso de conducir' is correct, in many countries 'licencia de conducir' is preferred. However, 'permiso' is never wrong as it refers to the authorization itself. In a professional setting, don't confuse 'permiso' with 'vacaciones'. 'Vacaciones' are your earned annual leave, while 'un permiso' is usually a specific, often unpaid or specially granted, time off for a specific reason (like a funeral or a doctor's appointment). Finally, remember the gender. It is 'el permiso', never 'la permiso'. Even if you are a woman saying 'con permiso', the word remains masculine because it refers to the concept of permission, not the speaker. Mastering these distinctions will make your Spanish sound much more natural and prevent the awkward social friction that comes from using the wrong 'excuse me' in a tight spot.

While 'permiso' is the most common term, Spanish offers several synonyms and related words depending on the level of formality and the specific context. Understanding these helps you choose the most precise word for your situation. 'Autorización' is the most direct synonym, often used in official or formal contexts where a person in power grants a right. 'Licencia' is frequently used for official permits granted by the state, like a business license or a driver's license in certain regions. 'Venia' is a very formal, almost archaic or literary term for permission, often used in legal or military settings (e.g., 'con la venia de su señoría' - with your honor's permission).

Permiso vs. Autorización
Permiso is everyday and general; Autorización is formal and often written.
Permiso vs. Consentimiento
Consentimiento refers to 'consent' or 'agreement', often in medical or legal contexts, implying a shared understanding.
Permiso vs. Pase
A 'pase' is a physical object (a pass) that proves you have permission to enter a place.

Necesitamos la autorización firmada por el director.

Other alternatives include 'beneplácito', which refers to approval or pleasure regarding an action, often used in diplomatic circles. In a more casual setting, if you want to ask if something is okay, you might say '¿Te importa si...?' (Do you mind if...?) or '¿Hay algún problema si...?' (Is there any problem if...?). However, these are phrases that replace the noun 'permiso' with a verbal construction. 'Salvoconducto' is a specific type of permission—a safe passage or a permit to travel during restricted times (like a curfew). Knowing these variations allows you to navigate different social strata. Use 'permiso' for 90% of your interactions, 'autorización' when filling out forms, and 'licencia' when talking about your car or professional credentials. This linguistic range ensures you are not only understood but also perceived as a sophisticated and culturally aware speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The word is related to 'mission' and 'admit' because they all share the Latin root 'mittere' (to send).

Guia de pronúncia

UK /pɛəˈmiːsəʊ/
US /pɛrˈmisoʊ/
The stress is on the second syllable: per-MI-so.
Rima com
piso aviso sumiso preciso liso improviso compromiso conciso
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r' [ɹ] instead of a tap [ɾ].
  • Stress on the first syllable (PER-miso).
  • Making the 'i' sound like the 'i' in 'sit' instead of 'ee' in 'see'.
  • Aspirating the 'p' (blowing air out).
  • Adding a 'u' sound to the end of the 'o'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 1/5

Very easy to recognize as it looks like 'permission'.

Escrita 2/5

Simple spelling, but remember it ends in 'o', not 'ion'.

Expressão oral 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but requires the correct tap 'r'.

Audição 1/5

Very clear and distinct sound in conversation.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

por favor gracias perdón hola si

Aprenda a seguir

permitir licencia autorización prohibido posible

Avançado

venia beneplácito discrecionalidad vinculante revocación

Gramática essencial

Verbs of Request

Pedir (to ask for) is used with 'permiso' instead of 'preguntar'.

Indirect Object Pronouns

Me das, te doy, le pedimos.

Prepositions with Nouns

Permiso para + verb vs Permiso de + noun.

Masculine Noun Gender

Always 'el permiso', regardless of the speaker's gender.

Infinitives as Nouns

El permiso de fumar está prohibido.

Exemplos por nível

1

Con permiso, ¿puedo pasar?

Excuse me, can I pass?

Use 'con permiso' to politely ask people to move.

2

Permiso, necesito ir al baño.

Excuse me, I need to go to the bathroom.

Simple interjection usage.

3

¿Me das permiso?

Will you give me permission?

Direct object 'me' + verb 'dar'.

4

Tengo permiso de mi mamá.

I have my mom's permission.

'Permiso de' indicates the source of authority.

5

¡Permiso! El autobús se va.

Excuse me! The bus is leaving.

Exclamatory use for urgency.

6

No tengo permiso para entrar.

I don't have permission to enter.

'Para' + infinitive 'entrar'.

7

Pide permiso primero.

Ask for permission first.

Imperative of 'pedir'.

8

¿Es con permiso?

Is it with permission?

Asking about the status of an action.

1

Necesito un permiso de conducir nuevo.

I need a new driver's license.

Common compound noun.

2

El profesor nos dio permiso para salir.

The teacher gave us permission to leave.

Indirect object 'nos' + past tense 'dio'.

3

No puedes entrar aquí sin permiso.

You cannot enter here without permission.

'Sin permiso' is a common adverbial phrase.

4

¿Ya pediste permiso a tu jefe?

Did you already ask your boss for permission?

'Pedir permiso a' someone.

5

Ella tiene un permiso especial.

She has a special permit.

Adjective 'especial' modifying 'permiso'.

6

Con su permiso, me retiro.

With your permission, I'll be going.

Formal 'su' makes it very polite.

7

¿Dónde está mi permiso de trabajo?

Where is my work permit?

Possessive 'mi' + compound noun.

8

Ellos no tienen permiso de pescar aquí.

They don't have permission to fish here.

'Permiso de' + infinitive.

1

Solicité un permiso de maternidad de tres meses.

I requested a three-month maternity leave.

'Solicitar' is more formal than 'pedir'.

2

Debes revisar los permisos de la aplicación.

You must check the app's permissions.

Plural 'permisos' in a tech context.

3

El ayuntamiento otorgó el permiso de construcción.

The city council granted the building permit.

'Otorgar' is a formal verb for 'to grant'.

4

Pidió permiso para ausentarse por motivos personales.

He asked for permission to be absent for personal reasons.

'Ausentarse' is a reflexive verb for being absent.

5

Con el permiso de todos, voy a empezar.

With everyone's permission, I'm going to start.

Addressing a group formally.

6

No me dieron permiso de estacionar aquí.

They didn't give me permission to park here.

Negative construction with 'dar'.

7

Es necesario un permiso para vender en la calle.

A permit is necessary to sell on the street.

Impersonal 'es necesario'.

8

Le negaron el permiso de salida del país.

They denied him the exit permit from the country.

'Negar' is the opposite of 'dar'.

1

El permiso retribuido es un derecho del trabajador.

Paid leave is a worker's right.

'Retribuido' means 'paid' or 'remunerated'.

2

Actuó sin el debido permiso de las autoridades.

He acted without the proper permission from the authorities.

'Debido' adds a layer of formal requirement.

3

La empresa gestiona los permisos de importación.

The company manages the import permits.

'Gestionar' means to manage or process.

4

Con el permiso de la presidencia, haré una pregunta.

With the permission of the chair, I will ask a question.

Highly formal administrative phrase.

5

Hay que renovar el permiso de residencia cada año.

The residence permit must be renewed every year.

'Hay que' + infinitive for necessity.

6

El software requiere permisos de administrador.

The software requires administrator permissions.

Technical terminology.

7

Pidió un permiso de armas para su protección.

He asked for a gun permit for his protection.

Legal context.

8

El juez concedió un permiso penitenciario al reo.

The judge granted a prison furlough to the prisoner.

'Penitenciario' refers to the prison system.

1

La falta de permiso administrativo paralizó la obra.

The lack of administrative permit brought the construction to a halt.

Formal noun phrase 'falta de permiso'.

2

Solicitó la venia para dirigirse al tribunal.

He requested permission (venia) to address the court.

'Venia' is a formal synonym for 'permiso'.

3

El consentimiento informado es un tipo de permiso médico.

Informed consent is a type of medical permission.

Conceptual link between 'consentimiento' and 'permiso'.

4

No se puede operar sin el beneplácito del consejo.

One cannot operate without the approval of the board.

'Beneplácito' implies formal approval/pleasure.

5

El permiso de vertidos es crucial para la fábrica.

The discharge permit is crucial for the factory.

Environmental legal term.

6

Se le concedió un permiso extraordinario por fallecimiento.

He was granted an extraordinary leave due to a death.

Labor law terminology.

7

Los permisos de explotación minera son polémicos.

Mining exploitation permits are controversial.

Resource management context.

8

A falta de permiso expreso, se prohíbe la copia.

In the absence of express permission, copying is prohibited.

'Expreso' means explicit or clearly stated.

1

La discrecionalidad en la concesión de permisos es cuestionable.

The discretion in the granting of permits is questionable.

Abstract legal/political analysis.

2

El permiso tácito no siempre es legalmente vinculante.

Tacit permission is not always legally binding.

'Tácito' means implied without being said.

3

Se debate la naturaleza del permiso moral en la ética.

The nature of moral permission is debated in ethics.

Philosophical use of the noun.

4

La revocación del permiso supuso un duro golpe financiero.

The revocation of the permit was a hard financial blow.

'Revocación' is the formal cancellation of a permit.

5

Bajo el amparo del permiso real, exploraron nuevas tierras.

Under the protection of royal permission, they explored new lands.

Historical/literary context.

6

La normativa regula los permisos de emisión de carbono.

The regulations govern carbon emission permits.

Modern environmental policy.

7

El permiso de uso de suelo determina el valor del terreno.

The land use permit determines the value of the land.

Urban planning terminology.

8

Sin la venia del autor, el texto no puede ser adaptado.

Without the author's permission, the text cannot be adapted.

Intellectual property context.

Colocações comuns

pedir permiso
dar permiso
permiso de conducir
sin permiso
permiso de trabajo
permiso de residencia
con permiso
permiso de maternidad
permiso retribuido
permisos de usuario

Frases Comuns

Con su permiso

— A very formal way to say 'excuse me'. Used with superiors or elders.

Con su permiso, señor, me retiro.

Pedir permiso a uno de sus pies

— A humorous or idiomatic way to say someone is very clumsy or slow.

Camina tan lento que parece que le pide permiso a un pie para mover el otro.

Permiso especial

— An authorization granted for an exceptional circumstance.

Tengo un permiso especial para entrar al área restringida.

Permiso de armas

— A legal license to carry or own a firearm.

El policía revisó su permiso de armas.

Permiso de obra

— A legal permit required to start construction or renovations.

No podemos empezar sin el permiso de obra.

Permiso de salida

— Authorization to leave a place, like a school or a country.

El niño necesita un permiso de salida de la escuela.

Permiso de circulación

— The vehicle registration document in Spain.

La policía me pidió el permiso de circulación del coche.

Permiso para soñar

— A poetic expression meaning having the right or freedom to hope.

Danos permiso para soñar con un mundo mejor.

Permiso denegado

— The formal status when a request for a permit is rejected.

El sistema dice 'permiso denegado'.

Permiso de lactancia

— Legal time off for breastfeeding mothers in some countries.

Ella solicitó su permiso de lactancia.

Frequentemente confundido com

permiso vs perdón

Used for apologies, while permiso is for requests to pass or act.

permiso vs disculpa

Used to get attention, while permiso is to excuse your movement.

permiso vs licencia

Often interchangeable for documents, but permiso is the broader term for the act of allowing.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Con el permiso de..."

— Used to introduce a different opinion or to interrupt politely.

Con el permiso de los presentes, no estoy de acuerdo.

formal
"Pedir permiso para respirar"

— To describe someone who is extremely controlled or has no autonomy.

En ese trabajo tiene que pedir permiso hasta para respirar.

informal/figurative
"Tomarse el permiso"

— To take the liberty of doing something without asking.

Me tomé el permiso de abrir la ventana.

neutral
"Dar el permiso"

— To give the green light or approval to a project.

El jefe ya dio el permiso para el nuevo proyecto.

neutral
"Permiso concedido"

— A standard response granting a request, sometimes used in a military or robotic way.

—¿Puedo hablar? —Permiso concedido.

formal
"Sin pedir permiso ni perdón"

— To do something boldly without caring about rules or consequences.

Ella vive su vida sin pedir permiso ni perdón.

literary
"Permiso de palabra"

— A verbal authorization that hasn't been written down yet.

Tengo el permiso de palabra, pero espero el papel.

neutral
"Con el permiso del tiempo"

— If time allows; used when talking about future plans.

Terminaremos el libro, con el permiso del tiempo.

literary
"Bajo permiso"

— Under the condition of having a permit.

Esta zona es solo bajo permiso.

formal
"Pedir permiso a la almohada"

— To sleep on a decision (less common than 'consultar con la almohada' but used).

Voy a pedirle permiso a la almohada antes de decidir.

informal

Fácil de confundir

permiso vs permitir

It's the verb form.

Permitir is the action (to allow); permiso is the noun (the allowance).

Mi madre me permite ir (verb). Tengo el permiso (noun).

permiso vs promesa

Sounds similar.

Promesa means 'promise'. Permiso means 'permission'.

Hice una promesa. Pedí permiso.

permiso vs premio

Sounds similar.

Premio means 'prize' or 'award'.

Gané un premio. No tengo permiso.

permiso vs piso

Sounds similar.

Piso means 'floor' or 'apartment'.

Vivo en el tercer piso.

permiso vs preso

Sounds similar.

Preso means 'prisoner'.

El preso no tiene permiso de salir.

Padrões de frases

A1

Con permiso.

Con permiso, señora.

A1

¿Me das permiso?

¿Me das permiso de salir?

A2

No tengo permiso para + infinitive.

No tengo permiso para entrar.

B1

Pedir permiso a + person.

Le pedí permiso a mi jefe.

B2

El permiso de + noun.

El permiso de construcción es caro.

C1

Sin el debido permiso de...

Sin el debido permiso de la ley.

C2

La concesión de permisos...

La concesión de permisos fue lenta.

C2

Con la venia de...

Con la venia de la corte.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

permiso
permisionario
permisividad

Verbos

permitir

Adjetivos

permitido
permisivo
permisible

Relacionado

licencia
autorización
consentimiento
pase
venia

Como usar

frequency

Extremely frequent in both spoken and written Spanish.

Erros comuns
  • Using 'perdón' to pass someone. Permiso.

    Perdón is an apology for a mistake; permiso is a request for passage.

  • Saying 'la permiso'. El permiso.

    Permiso is a masculine noun.

  • Yo permiso tú. Yo te doy permiso.

    Permiso is a noun, not a verb. Use 'dar permiso' or 'permitir'.

  • Preguntar por permiso. Pedir permiso.

    In Spanish, you 'request' permission (pedir), you don't 'ask a question' about it (preguntar).

  • Permiso de ir. Permiso para ir.

    Use 'para' when followed by an infinitive verb.

Dicas

The Subway Rule

When the subway is full, say 'permiso' while making eye contact with the person in your way. They will move immediately.

Pedir vs Preguntar

Never say 'preguntar por permiso'. Always use 'pedir permiso'. This is a very common mistake for English speakers.

Formal Requests

In an office, always ask for 'un permiso' rather than just saying you won't be there. It shows respect for the hierarchy.

Check Your Docs

If you are renting a car, ask for the 'permiso de circulación'. It's the paper that proves the car is legal to drive.

App Safety

If an app asks for 'permisos de ubicación', it wants to know your location. Be careful which 'permisos' you grant.

Regional Nuance

In Mexico, 'con su permiso' is very common. In Spain, 'con permiso' or just 'permiso' is more standard.

Leaving the Table

If you need to leave the dinner table briefly, say 'permiso' to the group. It's more natural than a long explanation.

Latin Roots

Knowing it comes from 'permittere' helps you remember it's about 'letting through'.

The Soft R

Practice the 'r' in permiso. It's a single tap, not a roll. Like the 'dd' in the English word 'ladder'.

Compound Nouns

Learn 'permiso de [noun]' as a single block of meaning. It's easier than thinking of individual words.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'Permit' for your 'Mission'. PER-MIS-O. You need a permit to complete your mission.

Associação visual

Imagine a velvet rope being unhooked for you as you say 'permiso'.

Word Web

permitir permiso de conducir con permiso licencia autorización permisivo prohibido pase

Desafio

Try to say 'permiso' next time you need to pass someone in your own house, just to get used to the sound.

Origem da palavra

From the Latin 'permissus', the past participle of 'permittere', meaning 'to let through' or 'to allow'.

Significado original: The act of letting something pass or granting liberty.

Romance (Latin root).

Contexto cultural

Always use 'permiso' when interrupting someone or passing by. Using 'hey' or just pushing through is culturally insensitive.

English speakers often say 'sorry' when they haven't done anything wrong. In Spanish, use 'permiso' instead of 'perdón' to avoid sounding overly apologetic.

The phrase 'Es mejor pedir perdón que pedir permiso' (It's better to ask for forgiveness than permission) is a common proverb. In many telenovelas, a character will dramatically say '¡Con su permiso!' before storming out of a room. Administrative 'permisos' are a common theme in Spanish literature exploring bureaucracy, such as in the works of Larra.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Public Transport

  • Permiso, voy a bajar.
  • Con permiso, ¿puedo pasar?
  • Permiso, esta es mi parada.
  • ¡Permiso!

Workplace

  • Pedir un permiso.
  • Permiso de maternidad.
  • Permiso sin sueldo.
  • Permiso retribuido.

Family/Home

  • ¿Me das permiso?
  • No tienes permiso.
  • Pide permiso a tu padre.
  • Tengo permiso.

Legal/Gov

  • Permiso de conducir.
  • Permiso de residencia.
  • Permiso de obra.
  • Solicitar un permiso.

Digital

  • Permisos de la app.
  • Permisos de archivos.
  • Denegar permisos.
  • Aceptar permisos.

Iniciadores de conversa

"¿Alguna vez has tenido que pedir un permiso especial en el trabajo?"

"¿A qué edad te dieron permiso tus padres para salir de noche?"

"¿Es difícil obtener el permiso de conducir en tu país?"

"¿Crees que es mejor pedir perdón o pedir permiso?"

"¿Qué permisos necesita una aplicación para ser segura?"

Temas para diário

Escribe sobre una vez que hiciste algo sin permiso y qué pasó.

Describe los permisos que necesitas para abrir un negocio en tu ciudad.

¿Cómo te sientes cuando alguien pasa a tu lado sin decir 'permiso'?

Escribe una carta formal pidiendo permiso para un proyecto importante.

Reflexiona sobre el concepto de 'permiso moral' en una situación difícil.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, 'permiso' is not an apology for a mistake. Use 'perdón' or 'lo siento' if you did something wrong. Use 'permiso' if you are about to pass someone or leave.

Mostly, yes, but some countries like Mexico or Colombia often use 'licencia de conducir'. Everyone will understand 'permiso', though.

Both are correct. 'Con permiso' is slightly more formal and polite. 'Permiso' is quicker and very common in crowded places.

You say 'Quisiera pedir un permiso para faltar mañana' or 'Necesito un permiso de un día'.

It is always masculine: 'el permiso'. Even if a woman is speaking, the word doesn't change.

It is 'paid leave'. It means you have permission to be absent and you still get paid.

Yes, saying 'Con permiso' is a polite way to enter or leave a conversation group.

It means 'without permission' or 'unauthorized'. For example: 'Entró en mi cuarto sin permiso'.

Yes, especially in Latin America. It's a 'cute' or very soft way to ask someone to move a tiny bit.

No. The verb is 'permitir'. 'Permiso' is always a noun.

Teste-se 180 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence asking for permission to go to the park.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'con permiso' to pass someone.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about needing a driver's license.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about working without a permit.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a formal sentence requesting a day off.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'They gave us permission to enter'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Excuse me, this is my stop'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'sin permiso'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'permisos' in a technical context.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'permiso de maternidad'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'con su permiso' (formal).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about a building permit.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about a residence permit.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I asked my boss for permission'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'It's better to ask for forgiveness than permission'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'conceder un permiso'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'denegar un permiso'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'bajo permiso'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'permiso retribuido'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'venia' in a legal context.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronounce 'permiso' focusing on the tap 'r'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Con permiso' as if you are passing through a crowd.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask a question: 'Can I have permission to go to the bathroom?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Driver's License' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Without permission' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Practice saying 'Con su permiso' formally.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Work Permit' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say the phrase: 'Es mejor pedir perdón que pedir permiso'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Maternity leave' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Practice the plural: 'Permisos'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Building permit' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Residence permit' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I asked for permission' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'They gave me permission' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Excuse me, I need to pass' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Special permit' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Paid leave' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Gun permit' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'App permissions' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'With the court's permission' in Spanish.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and identify the word: '¿Me das permiso?'

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listening

Listen and identify the word: 'Con permiso'.

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listening

Listen and identify the phrase: 'Permiso de conducir'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Sin permiso'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Permiso de trabajo'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Pedir permiso'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Me dieron permiso'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Permiso de maternidad'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Permisos de usuario'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Con su permiso'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Permiso retribuido'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Denegar el permiso'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Solicitar permiso'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Permiso especial'.

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Permiso de obra'.

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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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