Pronunciation: [lˈe͡ɪsɛz pˈasə] (IPA) 
The phrase "laissez passer" is a French term meaning "let pass" or "allow to pass." It is spelled "l-a-i-s-s-e-z" in French, with the "s" being silent, and "p-a-s-s-e-r." In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as "lese pase." The accent mark over the "e" in "lese" indicates that it is pronounced as a long "a" sound, and the two letters "ss" in "pase" are pronounced as a single "s" sound.
Laissez passer is a French phrase that translates to "let pass" in English. In its dictionary definition, it refers to an official document or permit that allows individuals or goods to pass through borders, checkpoints, or restricted areas without hindrance or scrutiny. A laissez passer is typically issued by a recognized authority, such as a government or international organization, and it serves as proof of permission to travel or access certain areas.
The term is commonly used in the context of international travel and migration, where it applies to temporary travel documents or emergency passports issued to individuals who cannot obtain their regular travel documents due to various reasons, such as loss, theft, or lack of proper documentation. A laissez passer usually bears the holder's personal details, photograph, and relevant information about their travel purpose, duration, and intended destination.
Additionally, laissez passer can also refer to a broader concept rooted in economic philosophy. In this sense, laissez passer denotes the doctrine of non-interference by the government or other regulatory bodies in the affairs of private individuals or businesses. It emphasizes free market capitalism, minimal government intervention, and the belief that economic progress is best achieved by allowing individuals and businesses to operate with minimal restrictions. This idea is often associated with classical liberal economic theories and is a fundamental principle in laissez-faire economics.
The term "laissez passer" has its origins in the French language. It is a compound phrase derived from the French verb "laisser" meaning "to let" or "to allow", and the noun "passer" meaning "to pass" or "to go through".
The term gained prominence during the mid-18th century as part of the economic philosophy known as laissez-faire, which advocated for minimal government intervention in the economy. The phrase "laissez faire, laissez passer" was often used as a slogan expressing the idea that the government should not interfere with economic activities and instead allow them to function freely without restrictions.
Over time, the term "laissez passer" acquired broader usage and came to refer to a permit or document that allows someone to pass through or travel freely, often used in the context of border crossings, checkpoints, or bureaucratic procedures.
