permit

 The word "permit" can be used as both a verb and a noun in English. Here's a breakdown of how to use it in each form, along with examples:

1. "Permit" as a Verb (meaning to allow or give permission)

• Structure: permit (someone) to do something / permit something

• Examples:

  • "The rules do not permit smoking in this area." (Meaning: The rules do not allow smoking.)
  • "My parents permitted me to go to the party." (Meaning: My parents gave me permission to go.)
  • "Weather permitting, we will go on a picnic tomorrow." (Meaning: If the weather allows, we will go.) This is a more formal usage.
  • "The manager permitted a short break." (Meaning: The manager allowed a short break.)

• Formal vs. Informal: "Permit" is generally more formal than "allow." In everyday conversation, "allow" is more common.

• Things to note: "Permit" is often followed by an infinitive (to + verb).

2. "Permit" as a Noun (meaning an official document giving permission)

• Structure: a permit / permits

• Examples:

  • "You need a permit to park here." (Meaning: You need an official document allowing you to park here.)
  • "I applied for a building permit." (Meaning: I applied for an official document allowing me to build.)
  • "Do you have all the necessary permits for the construction project?" (Meaning: Do you have all the necessary official documents?)

• Types of Permits: There are many types of permits, such as parking permits, building permits, work permits, fishing permits, etc.

• Common Collocations: "Issue a permit," "obtain a permit," "apply for a permit," "a valid permit."

Key Differences to Remember:

• Verb: Used to describe the act of giving permission.
• Noun: Used to refer to the official document that grants permission.

Example showing both uses:

"The city permits construction in this zone, but you must first obtain a building permit."

In summary: When you want to say that someone is allowed to do something, use "permit" as a verb. When you are referring to the official document that gives permission, use "permit" as a noun.