allow
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.
Not true — the Pew Research Center found 32 countries that have standards just like ours, while at least 50 others allow people born within their borders to become citizens if they meet certain criteria.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026
"You can't say that it's something that's needed and then not be somewhat willing to allow a facility to be there," he said.
From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026
The private BDCs allow investors to buy and sell shares at their net asset values.
From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026
Financial firms such as Fidelity, Vanguard and Charles Schwab said they routinely allow qualified disclaimers, but some sponsors might not.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026
“He wrote a letter of support for Alex before he went, and”—she paused here, feeling her baby kick with what felt like urgency—“if Maya-Jade and her family allow it, he can come back to work.”
From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
