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.
Perhaps the two major parties can allow their members to deviate from business casual, since they control the overwhelming majority of elected offices.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026
Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has agreed to allow Iran to be based in the country during the World Cup, claiming the United States were unwilling to host them.
From BBC • May 25, 2026
The narrative possibilities of willful forgetting allow Balda’s wool-clad characters to extend themselves far past the boundaries of George’s field and into the hearts of younger and older viewers alike.
From Salon • May 25, 2026
Ferrari opened a new $230 million factory in 2024 to allow for EV production, defying peers who slowed EV development.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026
“Chameleons have these cells that allow them to change color...so is that what you were...ah...”
From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste
Vocabulary lists containing allow
Beowulf vocabulary
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
"The Sporting Spirit"
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Workshop 3, Part 2
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
