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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

AI could see a “self-imposed regulation or a slowdown in development” to allow more time to adjust to its implications, though they identify no evidence of broad labor-market disruption from the emerging technology.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

While a divestiture could hurt earnings initially, it would allow management to focus on its faster-growing businesses, which could drive up Yum’s stock valuation.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

Others move the high pressure away to the east and allow the westerlies from the Atlantic to move back in.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

I allow my eyes to scan the letter again.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam




Vocabulary lists containing allow


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