permitir
/per-mee-TEER/
to permit
To permit: A key is handed over, representing formal authorization to access a closed area.
permitir(verb)
to permit
?to give formal authorization
,to allow
?to give consent
to let
?informal permission
📝 In Action
Mi jefe no me permite trabajar desde casa.
A1My boss does not allow me to work from home.
La ley permite el uso de bicicletas en esta zona.
A2The law permits the use of bicycles in this area.
Permítame ayudarle con esas cajas pesadas.
B1Allow me to help you with those heavy boxes. (Formal)
💡 Grammar Points
Using the Subjunctive
When 'permitir' is followed by 'que' and a different person is performing the second action, you must use the special verb form (the subjunctive): 'Permito que hagas la tarea' (I allow you to do the homework).
Using the Infinitive
If the same person is doing both actions, you use the simple verb form (the infinitive): 'Me permito opinar' (I allow myself to give my opinion).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Mixing up 'Permitir' and 'Dejar'
Mistake: "Using 'dejar' in very formal contexts where 'permitir' sounds better."
Correction: 'Permitir' is usually more formal or official than 'dejar'. Use 'Permitir' when referring to rules, laws, or formal consent.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Requests
Use the reflexive form 'Permítame' (Allow me) when offering help or asking for permission politely in formal situations, like approaching a stranger.
To enable: A ramp is provided, making it possible for the ball to overcome the obstacle.
permitir(verb)
to enable
?to make something possible
,to allow for
?to create the conditions for
to facilitate
?to make easy
📝 In Action
Este nuevo software permite una comunicación más rápida.
B1This new software enables faster communication.
La arquitectura del edificio permite la entrada de mucha luz natural.
B2The building's architecture allows for the entry of a lot of natural light.
Su flexibilidad le permite adaptarse a cualquier situación.
C1His flexibility allows him to adapt to any situation.
💡 Grammar Points
Impersonal Subjects
In this sense, 'permitir' often has an impersonal subject (a thing or a situation) rather than a person: 'El diseño permite...' (The design allows...).
⭐ Usage Tips
Technical Descriptions
Use 'permitir' when describing the features or capabilities of technology, infrastructure, or processes.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: permitir
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'permitir' in the sense of 'to enable' (making something possible)?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'permitir' and 'dejar'?
'Permitir' is often used in more formal, official, or structural contexts (like laws, rules, or professional agreements). 'Dejar' is more common in daily, informal conversation when talking about basic permission ('Can I leave now?').
When do I need to use the reflexive form 'permitirse'?
'Permitirse' (to allow oneself) is used when you are giving permission to yourself, often in the sense of 'to afford' or 'to indulge in.' For example, 'Me permití un día libre' (I allowed myself a day off).