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permiso means permit — a common term in Spanish for Business. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: April 8, 2026

💼 Spanish for Business

permiso

noun • /[per-MEE-so]/

permit

Example:

Necesitan permiso oficial.

They need official permission.

🧠 What does permiso mean?

The Spanish word 'permiso' translates to 'permit' in English and functions as a noun. It refers to an official authorization or license granted by an authority, allowing a person or entity to do something, undertake a project, or use a space. In a business context, 'permiso' is crucial for operations, signifying legal compliance and the right to proceed with specific activities. This can range from building permits and business licenses to permissions for operating certain equipment or conducting specific types of trade. The acquisition of a 'permiso' often involves an application process, adherence to regulations, and payment of fees.

📚 Extra examples

  • La empresa solicitó un permiso de construcción para el nuevo edificio.
    The company applied for a building permit for the new building.
  • Necesitas obtener un permiso especial para importar estos productos.
    You need to obtain a special permit to import these products.
  • El gobierno otorga permisos para la explotación de recursos naturales.
    The government grants permits for the exploitation of natural resources.
  • Sin el permiso adecuado, las operaciones podrían ser suspendidas.
    Without the proper permit, operations could be suspended.
  • El permiso de trabajo es obligatorio para los empleados extranjeros.
    A work permit is mandatory for foreign employees.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'permiso' derives from the Latin word 'permissus,' the past participle of 'permittere,' meaning 'to allow' or 'to let through.' This etymological root highlights the core concept of permission or authorization.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "permiso"

Synonyms: autorización, licencia, aprobación, concesión
Opposites: prohibición, denegación, negación

🔍 See more spanish for business words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'permit' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'permit' is 'permiso'.
How do you pronounce 'permiso' in Spanish?
Permiso is pronounced approximately as 'pair-MEE-soh'. The 'r' is a rolled or tapped sound, the 'm' and 's' sounds are similar to English, and the 'o' at the end is a clear, short vowel sound.
How do you use 'permiso' in a sentence?
You use 'permiso' in a sentence to refer to an official authorization. For example, 'Necesito un permiso para estacionar aquí.' (I need a permit to park here.) or 'El permiso fue aprobado por el ayuntamiento.' (The permit was approved by the city council.)
What is the English translation of 'permiso'?
The primary English translation of 'permiso' is 'permit'.
Does 'permiso' change for gender or number?
As a noun, 'permiso' does not change for gender. It is a masculine noun. However, it can change for number, becoming 'permisos' in the plural form, meaning 'permits'.
Is 'permiso' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'permiso' is a common word in everyday Spanish, particularly when discussing official authorizations, licenses, or even when politely asking for passage through a crowded area ('con su permiso').
Does 'permiso' have slang or double meanings?
While 'permiso' primarily means 'permit,' in very informal spoken Spanish, when someone wants to get past another person, they might say 'Permiso' as a polite request to pass, similar to 'Excuse me' or 'May I get by?' This is a common, non-slang usage.
Is 'permiso' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning of 'permiso' as 'permit' or 'authorization' is consistent across Spain and Latin America. The specific governmental bodies or processes involved in obtaining permits will vary by region, but the word itself functions the same way.

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