afford

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Because error rates now carry financial penalties, states are under pressure to invest in staffing, technology and oversight — costly upgrades that many can’t afford, but are necessary to avoid even larger future liabilities.

From Salon • Apr. 6, 2026

He couldn’t afford to fill up because he still had Easter presents to buy for his younger siblings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

"The government should instead be ensuring that Universal Credit is at least enough to afford essentials," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

Saying you can’t afford something when that isn’t true, for example, can unnecessarily harm a child’s relationship with money in the long-term.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

Most folks couldn’t afford to pay them to do their chores, so they also picked wild herbs from the hills.

From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney