permissive
puh-MIS-iv
/pəˈmɪsɪv/
Granting or characterized by great freedom of behavior and broad tolerance of actions.
Often implies an environment with few strict rules or boundaries, sometimes bordering on laxity.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'permissivus', coming from 'permittere' (to let pass through or grant leave). It entered English in the 17th century and gained widespread cultural currency in the 1960s to describe modern open social norms.
Word relationships
- lenient: Lenient refers to mild punishment; permissive refers to freedom allowed beforehand.
- tolerant: Tolerant implies respectful acceptance of differences; permissive implies allowing freedom with minimal oversight.
- strict: Demanding tight adherence to rules.
- authoritarian: Enforcing strict obedience at the expense of personal freedom.
Commonly confused with
- permissible: Permissible means allowed by law/rules; permissive describes a person or environment that allows freedom.
Word family
- permit (verb): To allow something to happen.
- permissiveness (noun): The state or quality of being permissive.
Collocations
- permissive attitude
- permissive society
- permissive culture
- permissive parenting
Idioms & expressions
- anything goes
- give free rein
Example sentences
- "Her permissive parenting style allowed her children to set their own bedtimes and manage their routines." Parenting style
- "The technology startup cultivated a permissive work environment with no dress code and flexible hours." Corporate culture
Memory hook
PERMISSIVE parents give PERMISSION for everything. Permission granted without hesitation.
When not to use
Do not use to mean merciful after a crime; permissiveness describes an environment or attitude set beforehand.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'the permissive society' was popularized in 1960s Britain to describe sweeping liberal changes in social policy and arts censorship.
Explore more words
give permission, latitude, discretionary, uninhibited, charitable, leisurely
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