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How to Say "authorization" in Spanish

English → Spanish

permiso

/per-MEE-soh//peɾˈmiso/

nounA1informal
Use 'permiso' for everyday, informal requests for permission, like asking a parent or friend.
A small child receiving permission from an adult to open a colorful gate and enter a playground.

Examples

Mamá, ¿me das permiso para ir al cine?

Mom, will you give me permission to go to the movies?

No tienes permiso para entrar aquí.

You do not have permission to enter here.

Pedí un día de permiso en el trabajo para ir al médico.

I asked for a day of leave from work to go to the doctor.

Asking for Permission

To ask for permission to do something, a super common phrase is 'pedir permiso para' followed by the action. For example, 'Pido permiso para hablar' (I ask for permission to speak).

autorización

nounB2formal
Opt for 'autorización' when referring to official, formal permission, often in writing, to access restricted areas or perform specific actions.

Examples

Necesitas una autorización por escrito para acceder a esa zona.

You need written authorization to access that area.

licencia

lee-SEN-syah/liˈθen.sja/

nounB1formal
Choose 'licencia' for formal approval granted by an authority, often implying a right or privilege, such as a driver's license or academic leave.
A large golden key turning in the lock of a simple wooden gate, symbolizing permission being granted.

Examples

El profesor dio licencia a los estudiantes para usar sus apuntes.

The professor gave the students permission to use their notes.

Con licencia poética, el escritor cambió la historia original.

Using poetic license, the writer changed the original story.

Formal Permission

While 'permiso' is the most common word for simple, everyday permission, 'licencia' often implies a more formal, official, or written authorization.

Permiso vs. Autorización

Learners often confuse 'permiso' and 'autorización'. Remember that 'permiso' is for general, everyday permission (like asking to go out), while 'autorización' implies a more official, often documented, grant of authority.

Related Translations

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