yǔnxǔ: 允许 - To Permit, To Allow

Keywords: yunxu, yǔnxǔ, 允许, how to say allow in Chinese, how to say permit in Chinese, permission in Chinese, Chinese word for allow, to grant permission, 可以 vs 允许, 同意 vs 允许, HSK 4 grammar.

Summary: The Chinese verb 允许 (yǔnxǔ) means “to permit” or “to allow.” It's a formal term used when someone with authority (like a parent, boss, or the government) grants official permission. Understanding yǔnxǔ is key to navigating formal situations and hierarchical relationships in China, distinguishing it from the more casual “can” or “may” expressed by 可以 (kěyǐ). This page will break down its meaning, cultural context, and practical use with clear examples.

Pinyin (with tone marks): yǔnxǔ

Part of Speech: Verb

HSK Level: HSK 4

Concise Definition: To grant permission or authorization for something.

In a Nutshell: Think of 允许 (yǔnxǔ) as the “official permission” word. It's not a casual “sure, go ahead” between friends. Instead, it implies a power dynamic: a rule is being followed, or someone in a higher position is giving a green light. You'll see it on signs, in company policies, and hear it from parents and teachers.

允 (yǔn): This character means “to consent” or “to agree.” It depicts a person bowing, signifying agreement or acceptance.

许 (xǔ): This character means “to allow,” “to permit,” or even “to praise.” It's composed of the “speech” radical (言) on the left and a phonetic component (午) on the right. Together, they suggest “giving verbal approval.”

When combined, 允许 (yǔnxǔ) literally means “to consent and allow.” This pairing creates a strong, formal word that emphasizes the act of officially granting permission.

In Chinese culture, hierarchy and respect for authority are significant social values. The word 允许 (yǔnxǔ) perfectly reflects this. Permission isn't always assumed; it often needs to be explicitly granted by a person or entity in a superior position—be it a parent, a teacher, a manager, or a government regulation.

Comparison to Western Culture: In English, “allow” can be used very broadly. A friend might “allow” you to borrow a book, which is a very casual usage. In Chinese, using 允许 (yǔnxǔ) in that peer-to-peer context would sound strangely formal and create an unnecessary power distance. The existence of a common, formal word like 允许 highlights a cultural tendency to be more conscious of who has the authority to grant permission in any given situation. It's tied to the idea of following rules (规矩 - guīju) and respecting the established order.

可以 (kěyǐ) - A more general and informal word for “can,” “may,” or “to be allowed.” It's the default for casual permission.

同意 (tóngyì) - To agree; to consent. Focuses on sharing an opinion or agreeing to a request, rather than a formal granting of permission from a position of authority.

批准 (pīzhǔn) - To approve; to ratify. This is even more formal than 允许 and is used for officially approving applications, budgets, or plans.

准许 (zhǔnxǔ) - A very close synonym for 允许, often used in formal or written contexts. It can sound slightly more official.

禁止 (jìnzhǐ) - The direct antonym: to prohibit; to forbid. This is a strong, official term often seen on signs.

许可 (xǔkě) - The noun form: a “permit” or “license.” For example, a 驾驶许可 (jiàshǐ xǔkě) is a driver's license/permit.

让 (ràng) - A highly versatile verb that can mean “to let” or “to allow” in a very casual sense. E.g., 他让我用他的车。 (Tā ràng wǒ yòng tā de chē.) - He let me use his car.