Comparison of "许可" and "允许"

In Chinese, both "许可" (xǔkě) and "允许" (yǔnxǔ) mean "permission" or "allow," but they are used in different contexts and carry slightly different nuances.

许可 (xǔkě)

"许可" is a noun or a verb meaning "permission" or "license." It is used in formal contexts, especially in legal or official documents, where official approval or permission is required.

• Example: You must obtain a building permit. - 你必须获得建筑许可。(Nǐ bìxū huòdé jiànzhú xǔkě.)
• Example: This software requires a license to use. - 这个软件需要许可才能使用。(Zhège ruǎnjiàn xūyào xǔkě cáinéng shǐyòng.)

允许 (yǔnxǔ)

"允许" is a verb meaning "to allow" or "to permit." It is used more broadly and in various contexts, from everyday speech to formal situations, to indicate the action of granting permission.

• Example: The parents allowed him to go on the trip. - 父母允许他去旅行。(Fùmǔ yǔnxǔ tā qù lǚxíng.)
• Example: Smoking is not allowed in this building. - 这座建筑不允许吸烟。(Zhè zuò jiànzhú bù yǔnxǔ xīyān.)

Main Differences

• Context: "许可" is used in more formal and official contexts, often related to legal or administrative matters, whereas "允许" can be used in everyday speech and a wide range of situations.
• Function: "许可" can be both a noun and a verb, while "允许" is only a verb.