# permissive

/pɝˈmɪsɪv/ (US) · /pəmˈɪsɪv/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/permissive
Updated: 2026-05-27

## Definition

allowing or encouraging people to do what they want, even if it is not always safe or traditional. In biology, it describes a gene that lets another gene work.

For teachers: allowing or encouraging freedom of action or expression; in a biological context, facilitating the expression of another gene. Often used to describe social attitudes or genetic regulation.

## Examples

- The school has a very permissive attitude toward student dress.
- The new software update includes a permissive license that allows users to modify the code for any purpose.
- While the regulatory environment was initially restrictive, the recent shift toward a more permissive framework has spurred a wave of innovation across the sector.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.