I permit myself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I permit myself" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a personal allowance or decision to take a certain action or to do something for oneself. Example: "I permit myself to take a break and enjoy some leisure time after a long week of work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"The weekend, I permit myself a croissant".

The New York Times

"I permit myself to say that this is a sad ending to my public career," he said.

The Washington Post

Now, whenever May and June roll around, and one or two commencement speeches go viral, I permit myself to read the comments.

The New Yorker

I also think you're right that this story is different in certain ways: it is more immediately rooted in the contemporary moment, the cultural artifacts and social fabric of TODAY, and I permit myself more explicit reflection and commentary here than I do elsewhere, where similar concerns are filtered, to a greater extent, through situation and metaphor.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

After their meetings, the literary editor added: "I permitted myself to be hopeful.

The New York Times

If I permitted myself a certain religious faith or degree of mysticism, I could persuade myself that she indeed was.

The New York Times

I permitted myself a modest vintage binge in autumn, buying three secondhand shirts and two secondhand jumpers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I permitted myself some brisket at a legendary barbecue place in the Texas hill country near Austin.

The New York Times

Many weeks later, flying to New Orleans on a business trip, I permitted myself to feel the loss, along with pride.

The New York Times

This is absolutely extraordinary!" He was referring to gymnastics, an event category that I permitted myself to skip entirely, after seeing the kinetic video of Lynn and Rick Raisman watching their daughter Aly's performance on the uneven bars.

The New Yorker

With my dog-eared copy of "Italian Journey" on the dashboard for instant inspiration, I permitted myself to meditate grandly on the meaning of this long, long descent from the Brenner, through the German-speaking Alto Adige province of Italy and its Teutonic castles daringly perched on Alpine outcroppings, and then to the first intimations of the Mediterranean.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I permit myself" when you want to express a conscious decision to allow yourself something, especially after a period of restriction or self-denial. It adds a touch of formality.

Common error

Avoid using "I permit myself" in very casual conversation. Opt for simpler phrases like "I'll allow myself" or "I'm going to" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I permit myself" functions as a declaration of self-granted permission. Ludwig AI examples show it used in contexts where the speaker is consciously allowing themselves something, often after a period of restraint or in a moment of self-justification. This contrasts with simply stating an intention, adding a layer of deliberate allowance.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I permit myself" is a phrase used to express a deliberate decision to allow oneself to do something, often after a period of self-restraint. Ludwig AI analysis suggests that it's grammatically correct and most frequently encountered in news and media contexts. While acceptable, it leans towards the formal side, so consider using simpler alternatives in casual conversations. The phrase is less common, so use it purposefully to convey a sense of conscious self-permission or justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I allow myself

Direct synonym, emphasizing allowance.

I give myself permission

More explicit and formal version.

I indulge in

Suggests treating oneself, often to something pleasurable.

I treat myself to

Similar to 'I indulge in', but focuses on the act of giving a treat.

I afford myself the opportunity

Highlights providing an opportunity.

I take the liberty

Emphasizes boldness or presumption in doing something.

I deem it acceptable to

More formal and emphasizes a decision of acceptability.

I see no reason not to

Suggests a lack of opposition, rather than active permission.

I feel entitled to

Implies a sense of deserving something.

I am inclined to

Suggests a tendency or leaning towards something.

FAQs

What does "I permit myself" mean?

The phrase "I permit myself" means that you are giving yourself permission to do something, often something that you might otherwise restrict yourself from doing. It suggests a conscious decision to allow a particular action or indulgence.

When is it appropriate to use "I permit myself"?

It's appropriate to use "I permit myself" when you want to express a deliberate allowance, often after a period of restraint or when making a somewhat formal declaration about your actions. For example, "After a long week of work, I permit myself a relaxing weekend."

What can I say instead of "I permit myself"?

You can use alternatives like "I allow myself", "I give myself permission", or "I indulge in" depending on the context.

Is "I permit myself" formal or informal?

"I permit myself" leans towards the formal side. If you're looking for something more casual, consider using "I allow myself" or simply stating what you intend to do.