許す

• Reading: ゆるす
• Romaji: yurusu
• Kanji breakdown: 許 (kyo/yuru) — permit, allow, forgive
• Pronunciation: /jɯ.ɾɯ.sɯ/

Meaning

To permit; to allow; to forgive. Granting approval or pardoning someone.

A Group 1 (godan) verb with す ending (許さない, 許します). Has two main senses: to give permission/approval, and to forgive a wrongdoing. The passive form 許される (to be permitted/forgiven) is very common. Often used in formal and emotional contexts alike.

Examples

1. 先生が教室で飲み物を飲むことを許した。 The teacher allowed us to have drinks in the classroom.
2. 彼のミスを許すことにした。 I decided to forgive his mistake.
3. こんなことは許されないと思う。 I don't think something like this should be permitted.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, relationships, formal situations

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the kanji 許 (kyo/yuru), meaning to permit or approve. The character combines 言 (words) and 午 (noon), originally suggesting a verbal grant of permission.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal