- 1[transitive] to allow someone to do something or to allow something to happen permit something Cell phones are not permitted in the library. There are fines for exceeding permitted levels of noise pollution. permit somebody/yourself something We were not permitted any contact with each other. Jim permitted himself a wry smile. permit somebody/yourself to do something Visitors are not permitted to take photographs. She would not permit herself to look at them. (formal) Permit me to offer you some advice.
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- 2[intransitive, transitive] to make something possible We hope to visit the cathedral, if time permits. I'll come tomorrow, weather permitting (= if the weather is fine). permit something The password permits access to all files on the network. The length of the report does not permit a detailed discussion of the problems. permit somebody/something to do something ATMs permit you to withdraw money at any time.
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NAmE//pərˈmɪt//
(formal)Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they permit he / she / it permits
past simple permitted
-ing form permitting
Check pronunciation: permit