Which should you use, permissible or permissive? The adjective permissible means allowed. The adjective permissive means allowing or characterized by great or excessive freedom of behaviour. A permissive person or society allows behaviour that other people might disapprove of.
| Incorrect: |
What is the permissive level of nitrate and nitrite in meat preservatives?
|
| Correct: |
What is the permissible level of nitrate and nitrite in meat preservatives?
|
| Incorrect: |
We live in a permissible society where no respect is given to human dignity.
|
| Correct: |
We live in a permissive society where no respect is given to human dignity.
|
