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Definition of permissively

permissively

/pərˈmɪs.ɪv.li/
per · mis · sive · ly
Adjective:permissive
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permissively Lexical Profile

permissively Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that allows a great deal of freedom of behavior; with tolerance or leniency.

Example

"Children who are raised too permissively sometimes struggle to adapt to structured classroom rules."

2

By way of permission rather than legal right or obligation; optionally.

Example

"Under the new municipal statute, the board is empowered to act permissively rather than mandatorily when reviewing minor zoning variances."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for permissively

• Nearby Words

permissibly
permission
permissive
permissively
permissiveness
permit
permittee

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'permissive' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly', tracing back to Medieval Latin 'permissivus' and Latin 'permittere' ('to let go through, allow'), from 'per-' ('through') and 'mittere' ('to send, let go').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Permissively. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/permissively
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