I permitted myself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I permitted myself" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing that you allowed yourself to do something, often in a context of self-reflection or personal boundaries. Example: "I permitted myself to take a break after working for several hours straight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"The weekend, I permit myself a croissant".

The New York Times

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

I've permitted myself this nostalgic reminiscence because Pete Fornatale, who was the spiritual leader of that gang of D.J.'s, died yesterday.

The New York Times

"I never permitted myself to be a victim," he said.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I permitted myself", consider the level of formality you wish to convey. It's suitable for reflective writing or situations where you want to express a conscious decision to allow yourself something, even if it might be seen as a slight indulgence or deviation from routine.

Common error

Avoid using "I permitted myself" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for alternatives like "I let myself" or "I allowed myself" for a more natural and less stilted tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I permitted myself" functions as a statement of self-allowance or permission. It indicates a conscious decision to grant oneself the liberty to do something, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I permitted myself" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express the act of granting oneself permission for something. While it's considered correct and appears mostly in "News & Media" contexts, as highlighted by Ludwig, it leans towards a more formal or reflective tone. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's essential to consider the context and choose a more casual alternative, such as "I let myself", in informal settings. The phrase is best used to convey a deliberate decision to allow oneself something, often with a hint of indulgence or awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I allowed myself

Simple substitution using 'allowed' instead of 'permitted', maintaining a similar level of formality.

I granted myself

Similar to 'gave myself permission', highlighting the act of bestowing something upon oneself.

I gave myself permission

Emphasizes the act of granting oneself authorization, adding a slightly more deliberate tone.

I let myself

More informal and implies a yielding to a desire or impulse.

I indulged in

Suggests allowing oneself a pleasure or luxury, changing the focus to enjoyment.

I treated myself

Similar to 'indulged in' but often implies a reward or special occasion.

I authorized myself

More formal, suggesting official approval or self-delegation of power.

I felt free to

Shifts the emphasis to a sense of liberation or lack of constraint.

I took the liberty of

A more polite and often self-aware way of indicating that one has done something, potentially without explicit permission.

I ventured to

Implies a sense of daring or risk-taking in allowing oneself to do something.

FAQs

What does "I permitted myself" mean?

The phrase "I permitted myself" means that you allowed yourself to do something. It suggests a conscious decision to grant yourself permission, often implying a slight hesitation or awareness that it might be a special or unusual action.

How can I use "I permitted myself" in a sentence?

You can use "I permitted myself" to describe allowing yourself a pleasure or a break from routine. For example, "After finishing the project, "I permitted myself" an extra slice of cake."

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

You can use alternatives like "I allowed myself", "I let myself", or "I gave myself permission" depending on the context.

Is "I permitted myself" more formal than "I allowed myself"?

Yes, "I permitted myself" generally carries a more formal tone than "I allowed myself". The choice depends on the desired level of formality in your writing or speech.