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allow

[uh-lou] / əˈlaʊ /




Usage

What are other ways to say allow?

Allow and permit are often interchangeable as terms that imply granting or conceding the right of someone to do something, but permit is the more positive of the two. Allow implies complete absence of an attempt, or even an intent, to hinder. Permit suggests formal or implied assent or authorization. Let is the familiar, conversational term for both allow and permit.


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.

They deliver powerful bursts of thrust that allow spacecraft to quickly accelerate, decelerate, climb, descend, or change position.

From Science Daily • Jun. 10, 2026

Such fees allow them to recover costs and manage the time and expense.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

Futures that mirror stock prices don’t seem useful, but futures allow for higher leverage than with basic stock trading.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

A working base would allow sustained scientific research, the testing of technology bound for future Mars missions, and the eventual extraction of lunar resources.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

He didn’t carry an umbrella, either, because the Saw Whet School didn’t allow them in the hallways or classrooms, which Bat agreed was a wise decision.

From "A Boy Called Bat" by Elana K. Arnold




Vocabulary lists containing allow


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