revocable
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪvˈɒkəbəl/
US
- /ˈrɛvəkəbəl/
Description
- able to be canceled
- able to be taken back
- not final
- not permanent
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.
The word *revocable* describes something that can be withdrawn, canceled, or undone. It suggests a lack of permanence and an inherent right to change one's mind or status. While this is a staple term in legal contexts, it applies to any situation where a decision isn't final.
Think about permission to use a parking space, a room, or a piece of software. That permission may be *revocable*, meaning the person or company that gave it can later take it back. Or consider a parent saying you may go to a party, but only as long as you finish your chores. That permission is revocable because it can be withdrawn if the conditions are not met.
*Revocable is most often contrasted with irrevocable*, which means not able to be changed or canceled easily. A trust, for instance, can be set up as either revocable or irrevocable; the first lets the creator change or end it later, while the second is much harder to change once it is created.
You'll encounter "revocable" frequently when discussing legal documents, trusts, licenses, permits, and certain kinds of authority or permission. These arrangements often include rules that explain exactly how and when they can be revoked. You may also hear the idea in everyday conversation, even if people do not always use the formal word.
So, when something is *revocable*, remember that it's not set in stone—there's always the possibility of taking it back or changing course. It's about retaining control and maintaining the power to exit an agreement.
Examples
- 1
Job offer
The job offer was revocable until she signed the contract.
- 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
Permission
Permission to use the company's logo is revocable at any time.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- revocableadjective