(never passive) formal to allow something to be possibleusually negative
This rule permits of no exceptions.He must have taken the money; the facts permit of no other interpretation.
phrasepermit of permit of sthformal to make it possible for something to happen: His present financial situation did not permit of marriage to a woman of Lady Sarah's rank.Much of the area is mountainous, with only around one-fifth permitting of cultivation.■ SIMILAR TO: enable