What are differences between "let", "allow" and "permit"?

Question

Dad doesn't let me watch that program.

Can we use "allow" or "permit" instead of "let"? What are the differences in grammar? Which one is common use?

score 6 · Accepted Answer · edited Jun 15 '20 at 07:40

6

All these sentences are valid:

Dad doesn't let me watch that program.

Dad doesn't allow me to watch that program.

Dad doesn't permit me to watch that program.

Note the use of the full infinitive (to + verb) with allow and permit. This is in contrast to let, which doesn't require it.

All three of these verbs are in common use. There's no significant difference in the basic meanings, but the choice of which one to use is somewhat governed by the degree of formality of the situation: let is the least formal usage, and permit is the most formal.

edited Jun 15 '20 at 07:40

Community

1

answered May 15 '14 at 06:18

Erik Kowal

26,806

Mooom! Dad doesn't let me watch my program, his big butt keeps blocking it. Also if I keep interrupting I do not let you watch your program. – mplungjan May 15 '14 at 06:22
1

In addition, allow and permit may be passivised, but not let (in this sense): Fishing [is] not allowed / Fishing not permitted. – Edwin Ashworth May 15 '14 at 09:53

score 2 · Answer 2 · answered Jun 22 '15 at 11:37

2

"Let" is a request in friendly way

Allow - Is up to individual's will & wish.

Permit - Authenticity of Law.

answered Jun 22 '15 at 11:37

user126204

21

This adds nothing to the existing answers. – Chenmunka Jun 22 '15 at 12:01

score 0 · Answer 3 · answered May 15 '14 at 07:19

I think "let" is informal than "allow" and "permit". I use "allow" that means make something possible. For example; Dad allows me to watch that program. Dad makes watching TV possible or not. When using "let" Dad give you permission or not. It's not about creating conditions for watching TV. Permit is about formal permission. That's the way I use those words.

What are differences between "let", "allow" and "permit"?

3 Answers3