Question

0029 a polite way of announcing that one is going to assist someone, unasked. (Typically said by a man assisting a woman by opening a door, lighting a cigarette, or providing support or aid in moving about. In Allow me, the stress is usually on me. In Permit me, the stress is usually on mit.)

Accepted Answer

Allow me. and Permit me. Tom and Jane approached the door. “Allow me,” said Tom, grabbing the doorknob.“Permit me,” said Fred, pulling out a gold-plated lighter and lighting Jane’s cigarette.

Id	0029
Headword	Allow me. and Permit me.
Definition	a polite way of announcing that one is going to assist someone, unasked. (Typically said by a man assisting a woman by opening a door, lighting a cigarette, or providing support or aid in moving about. In Allow me, the stress is usually on me. In Permit me, the stress is usually on mit.)
Examples	Tom and Jane approached the door. “Allow me,” said Tom, grabbing the doorknob. “Permit me,” said Fred, pulling out a gold-plated lighter and lighting Jane’s cigarette.

Permit Lighting Stress Polite Announcing Assist Unasked Typically