Deixar vs. permitir
Deixar and permitir are two Portuguese verbs that both translate into English as to let or to allow, but they are often used in distinct contexts. Understanding the differences in their meanings and usage will help you choose the right word in any given situation.
Deixar
A2Deixar primarily means to let, but it can also mean to leave depending on the context. It often implies permission more informally or passively, or by simply not interfering. It is commonly used in everyday conversation.
Deixe ele terminar de falar.
(Let him finish speaking.)
Eu deixei o documento em casa.
(I left the document at home.)
Você vai deixar eles entrarem?
(Are you going to let them come in?)
Permitir
B1Permitir is more formal and precise, meaning to allow or to permit. It often implies an explicit granting of permission or a deliberate action to authorize something. It is frequently used in formal settings or official contexts.
Os pais não permitiram que ele saísse à noite.
(The parents did not allow him to go out at night.)
A lei permite que os cidadãos votem aos 16 anos.
(The law allows citizens to vote at 16 years old.)
A diretora não permitiu atrasos na entrega do trabalho.
(The director did not permit delays in the submission of the work.)
Summary
While both deixar and permitir translate as to let or to allow, their nuances differ. Deixar is used more informally and often implies passive permission or non-interference, making it common in everyday speech. On the other hand, permitir is more formal and denotes explicitly granting permission, often in official or authoritative contexts. Choosing one over the other depends on the degree of formality and intent behind the action.