What is permission? Pronunciation and usage in English

permission means . Learn how to pronounce and use permission through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of permission

permissionnoun

/pəˈmɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of permission

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "permission." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

  • per - like the beginning of "perfect"
  • mis - like "miss"
  • sion - This is the trickiest part.

2. Pronunciation Guide:

  • per - /pər/ (The 'r' is very light, almost silent)
  • mis - /mɪs/ (like "miss" - short 'i' sound)
  • sion - /sɪn/ (This is a schwa sound – a very weak, unstressed vowel sound. Think of how you say "banana" – the 'a' is almost silent.)

3. Putting it all together:

The whole word is pronounced roughly: /pərˈmɪʃən/

Let's break that down visually:

  • pər (short "er" sound, like in "perch") – emphasis on the first syllable
  • ˈmɪʃən (silly-n) – emphasis on the second syllable

Tips for Saying It Right:

  • Don't stress the 's' in "mis." It's pronounced as a schwa sound.
  • The 'r' in “per” is very light. Don't over-emphasize it.
  • Practice slowly at first. Focus on each syllable.
  • Listen to native speakers! This is crucial. Here are some options:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce permission" on YouTube - you'll find many videos.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/permission/ - This website allows you to hear the word pronounced by native speakers from different regions.

Resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Break down any specific part of the pronunciation further?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word permission in English

Let's break down how to use the word "permission" in English. It's a versatile word with a few key related meanings.

1. As a noun (the thing you need):

This is the most common way to use "permission." It refers to the right to do something.

  • Example: "I need your permission to borrow your car." (You're asking for the right to borrow.)
  • Example: "He didn't ask for permission, so he shouldn't have gone." (He lacked the right to go.)
  • Example: "Do you have permission to take photos here?" (Are you authorized to take photos?)
  • Example: "The company requires permission from the board before making major investments." (They need authorization.)

2. As a verb (to ask for or grant it):

"Permission" can also be a verb, meaning to request or to give approval.

  • To ask for permission: "I’d like to ask for permission to leave early." (You are requesting approval.)
  • To grant permission: "The teacher gave me permission to use the library after school." (The teacher approved my request.)
  • To be granted permission: "He was granted permission to travel abroad." (He received authorization.)

3. Phrases using "permission":

Here are some common phrases that use "permission":

  • With permission: "Could I have your with permission to ask a question?" (This is a polite way to introduce a request.)
  • Permission to...: “I need permission to enter the building.” (Always followed by the action you're seeking approval for.)
  • To be granted permission: “She was granted permission to continue the project.”

Here’s a breakdown of common situations where you’d use “permission”:

  • Formal situations: Asking a boss, teacher, or authority figure for authorization.
  • Social situations: Asking to borrow something, join an activity, or use someone’s space.
  • Rules and regulations: Obtaining approval for actions that aren't typically allowed.

Tips for using "permission" correctly:

  • Politeness: When asking for permission, use polite phrases like "Could I...", "May I...", or "Would you mind...?”
  • Be specific: Clearly state what you’re requesting permission for. Don't just say "permission to do something;" explain exactly what you want to do.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Explain the difference between “permission” and similar words like “allowance” or “authorization”?
  • Help you write a sentence using "permission"?

Synonyms for the word permission

Practice with vocabulary permission

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Students must obtain official ________ from the department head to use the specialized lab equipment after hours.
  2. Before proceeding with the project, we need the client's final ________ on the proposed design.
  3. You cannot publish copyrighted material without the express ________ of the original creator.
  4. The company offers a generous ________ for professional development courses to all employees.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following terms refers to formal consent given by an authority to do something? a) privilege b) requirement c) permission d) obligation

  2. To legally conduct street vending, you typically need to obtain official ________ from the city council. a) privilege b) permit c) approval d) permission

  3. Access to classified documents requires special ________ from the security department. a) allowance b) entitlement c) authorization d) permission

  4. Before enrolling in advanced courses, students must seek the ________ of their academic advisor. a) allowance b) agreement c) consultation d) approval

  5. Which word best describes a special right or advantage granted to a particular person or group, often not available to everyone? a) obligation b) permission c) privilege d) mandate

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. It is not allowed for employees to access restricted areas without prior notice. (Rewrite using "permission")
  2. You cannot photocopy copyrighted material unless the copyright holder has explicitly given their consent. (Rewrite using "permission")
  3. The company allows its staff to work remotely two days a week. (Rewrite without using "permission")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. permission
  2. approval
  3. permission
  4. allowance

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) permission
  2. b) permit, c) approval, d) permission
  3. c) authorization, d) permission
  4. d) approval
  5. c) privilege

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Employees must obtain prior permission to access restricted areas.
  2. You cannot photocopy copyrighted material without the express permission of the copyright holder.
  3. The company authorizes its staff to work remotely two days a week.

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