Confused Words: Licence vs. License

Hey, English learners! In today’s lesson, we’re going to uncover the differences between “licence” and “license“. These words can be tricky as their usage varies between American and British English. Let’s dive in!

Licence

In British English, “licence” (IPA: /ˈlaɪsəns/) is used when referring to a noun – a permit from an authority to own or use something, do a particular thing, or carry on a trade.

Examples:

1. He obtained a driving “licence“. (He got permission to drive)
2. The restaurant owner had a “licence” to sell alcohol. (The restaurant owner had permission to sell alcohol)
3. My dog’s “licence” needs to be renewed annually. (My dog’s permit needs to be renewed every year)
4. I have a fishing “licence“. (I have permission to fish)
5. The city council issued a building “licence“. (The city council issued a permit for construction)
6. The broadcasting “licence” was granted to the new TV station. (The new TV station was given permission to broadcast)
7. They were selling DVDs without a “licence“. (They were selling DVDs without permission)
8. She has a “licence” to operate a forklift. (She has permission to operate a forklift)
9. The nightclub lost its “licence” due to noise complaints. (The nightclub lost its permit because of noise complaints)
10. He acquired a “licence” to practice law. (He got permission to practice law)

License

In contrast, “license” (IPA: /ˈlaɪsəns/) serves as both a noun and a verb in American English. As a verb, it means to give a licence to or to grant permission.

Examples:

1. He was “licensed” to drive a taxi. (He was given permission to drive a taxi)
2. The state “licensed” the company to sell lottery tickets. (The state gave the company permission to sell lottery tickets)
3. She is “licensed” to practice medicine in two states. (She has permission to practice medicine in two states)
4. The software is “licensed” for personal use only. (The software has permission for personal use only)
5. The school is “licensed” to teach English as a second language. (The school has permission to teach English as a second language)
6. The agency “licensed” them to provide child care services. (The agency gave them permission to provide child care services)
7. He is “licensed” to carry a concealed weapon. (He has permission to carry a concealed weapon)
8. They were “licensed” to broadcast in multiple countries. (They were given permission to broadcast in multiple countries)
9. The university is “licensed” to award PhD degrees. (The university has permission to award PhD degrees)
10. The factory was “licensed” to produce pharmaceuticals. (The factory was given permission to produce pharmaceuticals)

Conclusion

In essence, “licence” is used as a noun in British English while “license” can be both a noun and a verb in American English. Understanding this difference will certainly help you in your English language journey!