Permissive

/pərˈmɪsɪv/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Allowing or characterized by great or excessive freedom of behavior.

The school adopted a permissive policy that lets students choose their own courses.

Tolerant or lenient in allowing behavior or actions.

Her permissive parenting style led to her children having a lot of freedom.

Relating to or granting permission.

The permissive guidelines allowed researchers to pursue innovative methods.

From Latin 'permissivus', meaning 'allowed' or 'permitted'.

permissive society

A society that allows a wide range of behaviors and choices.

permissive parenting

A style of parenting characterized by high responsiveness but low demand.

permissive legislation

Laws that are lenient and allow for a range of actions without strict enforcement.

permission

The act of allowing something to happen.

permit

To allow something to happen; an official document that gives authorization.

tolerance

The ability or willingness to tolerate the existence of opinions or behavior that one dislikes or disagrees with.

To go easy on someone.

The coach was really permissive with practice rules this week.

To let things slide or not be strict.

My parents were so permissive during my teenage years.