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revocable

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /rɪvˈɒkəbəl/

US

  • /ˈrɛvəkəbəl/

Description

Imagine you lend a friend your favorite book with the understanding that they can borrow it as long as you don't ask for it back. That agreement is *revocable*—meaning you have the right to change your mind and request the book whenever you want. It's not set in stone!

A revocable arrangement, like a trust, a permit, or a license, allows the person who granted it to take it back or change it. Think of it as having an "escape hatch." It is still active for now, but it can be ended later if the rules allow it. Unlike something irrevocable—which cannot easily be changed or canceled—*revocable* suggests flexibility and the possibility of withdrawal. A revocable license, for example, could be taken away if you break the rules.

Examples

  1. 1

    Job offer

    The job offer was revocable until she signed the contract.

  2. 2

    Estate planning

    They chose a revocable trust because they wanted the option to change it later.

    • Domain

      revocable trust

      a legal arrangement that the person who created it can later change or end

  3. 3

    Permission

    Permission to use the company's logo is revocable at any time.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • revocableadjective