B2noun5K

Licence

UK /["/ˈlaɪsns/"]/US /["/ˈlaɪsns/"]/

Definition

an official document that shows that permission has been given to do, own or use something

In simple words: A legal document that allows you to do something.

Examples

  • He obtained a driving licence after passing the test.
  • The restaurant was shut down for operating without a proper licence.
  • She has a fishing licence that allows her to catch trout in the lake.
  • In some countries, a business licence is required to operate legally.
  • The artist felt he had the licence to express his feelings through his work.
  • Creative licence can sometimes lead to unconventional art.

Usage notes

Commonly used when discussing legal permissions like driving. Less formal in everyday conversation, but still a standard term.

Grammar pattern

licence + object

Memory hint

Think of 'license' like a 'license plate' on a car.

Collocations

  • valid
  • full
  • special
  • have
  • hold
  • buy
  • expire
  • run out
  • fee
  • holder
  • number
  • in a/​the licence
  • under a/​the licence
  • under licence
  • the holder of a licence

Synonyms

  • permit
  • authorization
  • certificate
  • endorsement

Antonyms

  • prohibition
  • forbiddance

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'licence' (UK) with 'license' (US) spelling.
  • Using it as a verb; remember 'license' is the verb form.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'lice-ence' instead of 'ly-sense'.