without prior permission

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without prior permission" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase used to indicate that something was done without explicit permission from an authority figure. For example: The student wrote an essay for her English class without prior permission.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

soils without prior permission from environmental authorities.

Geoderma

Redistribution, or commercial use is not allowed without prior permission.

Stanford University

Loans may not be moved between institutions without prior permission.

Harvard University

Late homework will not be accepted without prior permission.

Harvard University

Absentees/latecomers (without prior permission from the Warden) will be suitably punished.

The New York Times

Change of Address: Loans may not be move between institutions without prior permission.

Harvard University

All stage equipment is not to be moved without prior permission from CCRMA Staff or Faculty.

Stanford University

The software must not be further distributed without prior permission of the author.

Cornell University

It must not be distributed without prior permission of the author.

Cornell University

Please note: secure approvals in advance of any expenditures as receipts handed in without prior permission will not be processed.

Cornell University

In fact it appears those who committed this gutless act did it without "prior permission", so they were in full control and "lone wolves"; apparently.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone you wish to convey. "Without prior permission" can sound formal or even accusatory. Alternatives like "unauthorized" might be more neutral.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that "without prior permission" automatically implies wrongdoing. While it suggests a lack of authorization, the action itself might be justifiable or harmless. Ensure that any negative implications are explicitly stated, not merely implied.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without prior permission" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action was performed (i.e., lacking authorization). This is confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

37%

News & Media

46%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

2%

Unknown/unmatched sources

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "without prior permission" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate that an action was performed without the necessary authorization. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. It's frequently found in academic, news, and scientific domains. While widely used, writers should ensure clarity by specifying whose permission is needed and be mindful of the tone conveyed, as it can sometimes imply wrongdoing. Consider more neutral alternatives, such as "unauthorized" or "without consent", if a less accusatory tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without authorization beforehand

Emphasizes the lack of formal approval before an action.

without advance consent

Highlights the absence of agreement or approval given in advance.

lacking preliminary clearance

Focuses on the absence of official approval before proceeding.

absent of pre-approval

Highlights that the corresponding action was not pre-approved.

without previous sanction

Emphasizes the lack of official endorsement or penalty, where needed.

without due process

Indicates a deviation from established protocols or legal procedures.

on one's own authority

Highlights acting independently, without external authorization.

unapproved beforehand

Highlights that something hasn't been pre-approved.

unlawfully

Implies an action taken against the law.

independently

Focuses on the autonomous nature of the action, done without needing permission.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "without prior permission" to sound more formal?

Consider using alternatives such as "without advance authorization", "absent prior consent", or "lacking preliminary clearance" for a more formal tone.

What are some neutral alternatives to "without prior permission"?

Alternatives like "unauthorized", "unapproved", or "without consent" may convey the same meaning in a more neutral manner. You could also consider "independently" or "on one's own authority" depending on the context.

Is it always wrong to act "without prior permission"?

Not necessarily. While "without prior permission" suggests a lack of authorization, the action itself may be justifiable, harmless, or even necessary in certain situations. The context determines whether it's appropriate or inappropriate.

What's the difference between "without prior permission" and "illegally"?

"Without prior permission" simply means an action was taken without authorization. "Illegally", on the other hand, indicates that the action violated a specific law or regulation. An action can be done "without prior permission" but not necessarily be illegal, and vice versa. The phrase "without due process" could also be relevant.