Translation guide
The English word 'permit' can be a verb (to allow) or a noun (an official document). This guide covers both uses, with natural Japanese equivalents organized by meaning.
Can I take photos?
You need a permit.
Expressing permission or allowance for an action.
A common, casual-to-polite way to give permission. Attach to the te-form of a verb.
You may take photos here.
Can I go home?
Formal verb meaning 'to permit' or 'to authorize'. Used in official or written contexts.
The city permitted the construction.
Can mean 'to permit', but often carries a nuance of forgiveness or tolerance. Use with care.
Often means 'to forgive' rather than simply 'to permit'. Not a direct substitute for 'permit' in all cases.
Used when the speaker permits someone to do something as a favor. Can sound condescending if overused.
I let the child play games (permitted them to).
Describing a condition or situation that allows something to happen.
Literally 'make ~ possible'. A natural way to express that something enables or permits an outcome.
This technology permits remote control.
A longer but clear pattern meaning 'to make it so that one can do ~'.
Referring to a physical or digital permit, license, or pass.
General term for a permit or license document.
Please show your parking permit.
Specifically a license, like a driver's license. Often used for permits that certify a skill.
Similar to 許可証, but often used for written permissions in formal contexts.
The verb 許す often means 'to forgive' or 'to tolerate'. Using it for simple permission can sound unnatural or overly dramatic. Stick to 〜てもいい or 許可する for most cases.
The teacher permitted me to leave early. (But sounds like 'forgave me for leaving early'.)
許可証 is a general permit (e.g., parking, construction). 免許証 is a license that certifies qualification (e.g., driver's license, teaching license). Use 免許証 for official certifications.
Smoking is not permitted here.
Natural Japanese uses a noun phrase (禁煙) rather than a direct translation of 'not permitted'.
Permit me to introduce myself.
A polite request pattern, not a direct translation of 'permit me'.
彼は遅刻を許してくれなかった。
He didn't permit me to be late. (He didn't forgive my lateness.)
The new system permits easy sharing of data.
運転免許証を取った。
I got a driver's license (driving permit).
An entry permit is required.