under license

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under license" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is being used or distributed with permission from the rights holder or owner. Example: "The software is available for download under license from the original developer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Both are sold under license from Amgen.

The New York Times

Deckers has sold Teva sandals under license since 1985.

The New York Times

Johnson & Johnson sells the same drug under license as Procrit.

The New York Times

Cellular operators use radio waves under license from the F.C.C.

The New York Times

We don't allow anyone to make Omegas under license.

Harvard Business Review

Production of the 500 continued until 1975; versions were built in other countries under license.

The New York Times

All machines will be made under license and sold by Nestlé.

The New York Times

And even during Communist times a state-owned plant in Tychy built Fiat copies under license.

The New York Times

All machines will be made under license and sold by Nestl?

The New York Times

Beers are now exported worldwide and are produced under license in foreign countries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another new amenity, the 4-speed automatic transmission, was built under license from General Motors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under license", clearly state the source or entity granting the license to provide context and ensure transparency.

Common error

Avoid using "under license" without specifying who granted the license. This can create ambiguity and make it unclear who authorized the activity or production.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under license" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It indicates that an activity or product is carried out or produced with official permission.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under license" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies an activity or product is officially authorized. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. It is most commonly found in news, scientific, and business contexts, emphasizing legal compliance and authorized production. When using this phrase, ensure to specify the licensing entity for clarity. Alternatives such as "with permission" or "authorized by" can be used depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under permit

Similar to "under license", but used when authorization is granted through a permit.

licensed by

Focuses on the entity granting the license, shifting the emphasis.

authorized by

Directly states that something has been authorized by a specific entity.

with permission

Uses a more general term for authorization, applicable in various contexts.

officially permitted

Highlights the official nature of the permission granted.

with proper authorization

Highlights the correctness and validity of the authorization.

by authorization

Emphasizes the act of authorizing, suggesting a formal process.

in accordance with licensing

Indicates compliance with licensing regulations or terms.

subject to licensing

Highlights the requirement of obtaining a license before proceeding.

subject to terms of license

Emphasizes the conditions and stipulations attached to the licensing agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "under license" in a sentence?

You can use "under license" to indicate that something is being produced, sold, or used with the permission of the rights holder. For example, "This product is manufactured "under license" from the original inventor".

What are some alternatives to saying "under license"?

Alternatives to "under license" include phrases like "with permission", "licensed by", or "authorized by", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "licensed under" instead of "under license"?

Both "under license" and "licensed under" are acceptable, but "under license" usually precedes the activity or product, while "licensed under" precedes the entity granting the license. For example, "produced under license" vs "licensed under an agreement with".

What does it mean when something is produced "under license"?

When something is produced "under license", it means that the producer has obtained permission from the owner of the intellectual property (e.g., a patent, trademark, or copyright) to manufacture and sell the item. Royalties or fees are typically paid to the rights holder in exchange for this "authorization".