without licence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without licence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is being done without the necessary permission or authorization. Example: "The company was fined for operating without licence, as they had not obtained the required permits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

There are lorries driving around without licence plates.

The Guardian

In 2003, he spent two years in prison for possessing firearms without licence.

The Guardian - Music

Cigarettes can still be sold without licence at sweet shops – yet as Mr Penning said about legal highs, those profiting from their sale clearly disregard the deadly consequences.

Independent

Vehicles without licence plates speed by packed with conspicuous white faces.Yet the predictions of widespread trouble have not so far come to pass.

The Economist

For Bunyan, imprisoned for preaching without licence, poetry was a means to an end; for Vaughan Williams, it was an end in itself.

Independent

Carrying weapons into a country can be considered arms smuggling, using weapons without licence, breaching an arms embargo (especially in Somalia) and other offences.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The boats were mainly operating without licences or in prohibited areas.

The Guardian

Small wonder most businessfolk opt to work without licences or legal protections.

The Economist

And because it doesn't operate in the radio spectrum auctioned by the Federal Communications Commission, it can operate without licences.

The Economist

Mostly, though, it is because so many people drive uninsured bust-up old cars in Detroit, often without licences, pushing up the cost for everybody else.

The Economist

It is no use having laws regulating the activities of gangmasters when there are in practice often no sanctions for those who operate without licences.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "without licence", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific type of licence that is absent. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the clarity of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "without licence" when a more specific term like "without authorization" or "without permission" would provide greater clarity and precision. Consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without licence" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the absence of required authorization. Ludwig provides examples illustrating this function across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "without licence" is a common and grammatically correct way to express the absence of required authorization or permission for an activity. Ludwig confirms its usability and prevalence in various written contexts. While alternatives like "without permission" or "without authorization" exist, the choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality. Remember to be specific about the type of licence being referenced. Overall, "without licence" is a versatile phrase suitable for conveying non-compliance with regulations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without authorization

More formal and emphasizes the lack of official approval.

without permission

A more general term indicating the absence of consent.

without leave

Implies absence of formal approval, often in hierarchical or structured environments.

without permit

Specific to situations requiring a formal permit for an activity.

unauthorized

A single-word adjective describing actions or items lacking authorization.

unlicensed

A single-word adjective, directly related but useful for adjectival modification.

without consent

Focuses on the lack of agreement or voluntary permission.

illegally

Indicates that the action is against the law, implying a lack of legal permission.

against the rules

Implies a violation of established rules or regulations.

off the books

Suggests an action done secretly and without official record or approval.

FAQs

What does "without licence" mean?

The phrase "without licence" means acting or operating without the required official permission or authorization. It implies non-compliance with regulations or laws that necessitate a licence for certain activities.

What are some alternatives to "without licence"?

Alternatives to "without licence" include "without permission", "without authorization", "unlicensed", or "illegally" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "without a licence"?

Yes, "without a licence" is also grammatically correct. Both "without licence" and "without a licence" are used, with the choice often depending on stylistic preference or the specific nuance you want to convey. "Without licence" can sometimes sound more formal or absolute.

In what situations might someone operate "without licence"?

Operating "without licence" can occur in various situations, such as driving without a valid driver's licence, selling goods "without authorization", or constructing buildings "without permission" from the relevant authorities.