clearance

• Espace libre entre deux objets permettant de passer sans les toucher, ou autorisation officielle donnée à quelqu'un pour effectuer une action.

A noun referring to the space between two objects that allows one to pass without touching, or official permission or authorization to proceed with an action.

1. Space between objectsB2formal

   The distance by which one object passes another without touching; the gap or space between them.

   Jeu (espace entre objets)

   • The bridge has a clearance of 15 feet for boats.
   • There is not enough clearance for the truck to pass under the low arch.
   • The mechanic checked the clearance between the piston and the cylinder wall.

   Synonymesallowancedistancegapintervalleewaymarginplayseparationspace

   Antonymesblockageclosureobstruction

2. Vertical space for passageB2formal

   The amount of vertical space available to allow easy movement or passage underneath something.

   Gabarit de passage

   • The sign indicated a low clearance of 12 feet ahead.
   • The van was too tall to fit under the bridge with only 10 feet of clearance.
   • The garage door provides a clearance of 7 feet for vehicles.

   Synonymesheadway

3. Official permissionB1formal

   Authorization or permission to proceed with a particular action, especially in security or aviation contexts.

   Autorisation officielle

   • The pilot received clearance for takeoff from the control tower.
   • He was granted security clearance to access the classified documents.
   • We need clearance from the manager before we can start the project.

   Synonymesapprovalauthorizationconsentgo-aheadgreen lightleavepermissionpermitsanction

   Antonymesbandenialprohibitionrefusal