Consent vs Permission

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 ConsentPermission
MeaningPermission to do something.Being allowed to do something
Registerformal-
CEFR levelC1A2
Part of speechnounnoun
Usage notesCommonly used in legal, medical, and ethical contexts. Avoid in casual conversations unless discussing serious topics.Use 'permission' when talking about getting approval for an action. It's suitable in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in slang settings.

Frequently asked questions: Consent vs Permission

What's the difference between "Consent" and "Permission"?

"Consent" means: Permission to do something. "Permission" means: Being allowed to do something

When should I use "Consent" and "Permission"?

"Consent" is formal.

Are "Consent" and "Permission" the same CEFR level?

"Consent" is at C1, "Permission" is at A2 on the CEFR scale.

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