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.
Making the World Cup team will help in that effort by significantly raising Paintsil’s profile, which could open the door to more funding and allow him to expand the project.
From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026
In 2018, authorities demanded that Zion install around two dozen surveillance cameras to allow them to track the church’s activities.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026
This type of terrain can allow seawater to move beneath the glacier during high tide, temporarily lifting sections of ice off the ground.
From Science Daily • May 19, 2026
The fund will consist of a five-member commission, four of those appointed by the Attorney General, and will receive $1.776 billion to allow the justice department to settle and pay cases.
From BBC • May 18, 2026
The Toby flame was still too hot for him to touch, but he could allow himself to think about me and about you.
From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman
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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