English Reference

Word

permanently

Phoneticsper·ma·nent·ly, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈpɝmənəntɫi/

UK/pˈɜːmənəntli/

Adverb of manner

Definition

adv. in a way that lasts forever or for a very long time.

adv. in a manner that is intended to remain unchanged or to exist indefinitely.

Examples

“The shop is now permanently closed.”

“After living in several different cities, she decided to settle permanently in the mountains.”

“The treaty was designed to permanently alter the geopolitical landscape of the region, ensuring that the borders remained fixed for generations to come.”

Examples

simple

“The shop is now permanently closed.”

contextual

“After living in several different cities, she decided to settle permanently in the mountains.”

complex

“The treaty was designed to permanently alter the geopolitical landscape of the region, ensuring that the borders remained fixed for generations to come.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “permanently” in context.

Verb

01. be permanently banned from the forum

“Users who violate the terms of service will be permanently banned from the forum.”

verb + adv + prep + noun

02. close permanently

“The local library will close permanently at the end of this month due to budget cuts.”

verb + adv

03. permanently damage the environment

“The chemical spill could permanently damage the environment if it reaches the river.”

adv + verb + noun

04. permanently reside in the country

“She was granted a visa that allows her to permanently reside in the country.”

adv + verb + prep + noun

Adjective

05. permanently disabled

“The accident left him permanently disabled, requiring him to use a wheelchair.”

adv + adj

06. permanently etched in my memory

“The beautiful sunset we saw that evening is permanently etched in my memory.”

adv + adj + prep + noun

07. permanently shadowed

Usage

Usually placed after the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.

Pitfall

He is permanent living in London.

He is permanently living in London.

Use the adverb 'permanently' to describe how someone lives or where something is located, not the adjective 'permanent'.

Real-World Examples

“The eclipse in 1999 left many people concerned they had permanently damaged their eyes.”
The Guardian 13 Aug 2026
“Looking at the eclipse without eye protection can permanently damage your eyes.”
The Guardian 12 Aug 2026
“He should scrap the failed business rates system and urgently give sweeping new powers to councils so high streets can prosper and trading standards officers can permanently shut repeat offenders.”
The Guardian 11 Aug 2026

Etymology

From Middle English permanently; equivalent to permanent + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Word family

ADJECTIVE

ADVERB

permanently(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
Updated

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English Reference