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.
It couldn’t be learned whether Brooks would allow his music to stream broadly in the event of a sale, likely something potential investors would want.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026
"This announcement is a very good thing in that we cannot allow Lunatics to change our way of life, or even its scheduling."
From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026
The law doesn't allow the Crown to confiscate property or assets directly - it's an order for payment.
From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026
United States, that prisoners cannot seek compassionate release under the 2018 statute intended to allow exactly that relief, even if they show that their original convictions were inaccurate or unfairly decided.
From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026
The square was shady, surrounded by trees and small, brightly painted cafés, but Nighthand would not pause to allow Gelifen to eat the scraps left on the tables.
From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell
Vocabulary lists containing allow
Beowulf vocabulary
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"The Sporting Spirit"
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Workshop 3, Part 2
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