Permission is approval that allows someone to do something.
The idea
Permission is generally uncountable: ask for permission, not a permission. Use permission to do something: permission to enter.
Examples
- I asked for permission to use the photo.
- She gave us permission to enter the room.
- Do we have permission to record this meeting?
- He left without permission.
- Please get permission before sharing the document.
- They refused permission to use the garden.
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Watch out
A permit is usually an official document; permission is the approval itself.
Try it yourself
Choose the uncountable form after for. I asked for ___ to use the photo. (permission / a permission)
Show answer or example answer
permission
Permission is generally uncountable after for.
Choose the form naming the allowed action. She gave us permission ___ the room. (to enter / entering)
Show answer or example answer
to enter
To enter names the action that is allowed.
Choose the word meaning the person lacked permission. He had no approval and left ___ permission. (without / with)
Show answer or example answer
without
Without says the person did not have permission.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the uncountable form after for. I asked for ___ to use the photo. (permission / a permission)
Choose the form naming the allowed action. She gave us permission ___ the room. (to enter / entering)
Choose the word meaning the person lacked permission. He had no approval and left ___ permission. (without / with)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Ask for permission to use something and give a polite answer.