Allow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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allow

[əˈlaʊ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

permission

To give permission for something to happen or to not prevent something from happening.

Synonyms

authorize, enable, let, permit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
allow	Used in everyday language to grant permission for something to happen. She allowed her children to stay up late. The teacher allowed extra time for the exam.
permit	Formal; typically used in official or legal contexts to give permission. Smoking is not permitted in this building. The city council did not permit the construction of the new mall.
let	Informal; used in everyday conversations to grant permission or express willingness. Let me help you with that. Her parents let her go to the party.
authorize	Used in formal or official contexts where someone in a position of authority grants permission or power. The manager authorized the purchase of new equipment. Only the director can authorize such changes.
enable	Used to indicate making something possible or easier, often by providing the necessary means or support. The new software enables users to edit videos more easily. The scholarship enabled him to attend college.

Examples of usage

He allowed his daughter to stay out past curfew.
The teacher allowed the students to work in groups for the project.
She allowed herself a moment of relaxation after a long day.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

possibility

To make it possible for something to happen or exist.

Synonyms

enable, facilitate, make possible, permit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
allow	Use when you let someone do something or let something happen, often implying permission or lack of prevention. Parents usually allow their children to play outside after school. The new rule will allow more employees to work remotely.
enable	Use when you make it possible for someone to do something by providing the means or opportunity. Strong leadership can enable a team to achieve its goals. The new software will enable users to edit documents more efficiently.
facilitate	Use when you make a process easier or smoother, usually implying active help or intervention. The translator helped facilitate communication between the two parties. New technology can facilitate faster delivery times.
permit	Use when you give someone formal or official permission to do something, often implying authority. The sign says the park permits entry from dawn to dusk. The manager permits employees to leave early on Fridays.
make possible	Use to describe something that allows another thing to happen, often implying more than one factor or condition. Good planning and hard work make possible the success of large projects. Scientific advancements make possible new treatments for diseases.

Examples of usage

The new technology allows for faster communication.
The spacious layout allows for plenty of natural light in the room.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

tolerate

To tolerate or endure something without interference.

Synonyms

bear, endure, permit, tolerate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
allow	Commonly used to indicate giving permission for something, typically in a formal or informal context I will allow you to stay out late tonight. The teacher allowed the students to leave early.
tolerate	Generally employed to indicate putting up with something or someone, often implying passive acceptance rather than full approval. Can have a negative connotation. She could no longer tolerate his rude behavior. This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
endure	Used to describe the action of tolerating something difficult or painful over an extended period. More formal. She had to endure the harsh conditions of the desert. He endured years of hardship to achieve success.
permit	Frequently used in formal contexts or official situations where authorization is required. The city council permitted the construction of the new park. You need a permit to fish in this lake.
bear	Often used to mean enduring or putting up with something unpleasant. Has a slightly heavier emotional load. I cannot bear this pain anymore. He had to bear the burden of his family alone.

Examples of usage

She allowed his constant interruptions without complaint.
The company policy allows for flexible working hours.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

In legal terms, 'to allow' often refers to granting permission for specific actions or procedures.
Courts may 'allow' certain evidence to be presented during a trial, impacting the outcome of cases.

Psychology

'Allowing' yourself to feel emotions can be a crucial part of emotional intelligence and mental health.
In mindfulness practices, to 'allow' thoughts and feelings without judgment can lead to greater self-awareness.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'I allow it' has been popularized in memes, often used humorously to indicate giving permission in a light-hearted way.
Songs and movies often use themes of 'allowing' someone to be themselves, which resonates with the idea of acceptance.

Education

In classrooms, teachers 'allow' students to explore, promoting autonomy and critical thinking.
The concept of 'allowance' in financial education helps children learn about managing money by giving them a set amount regularly.

Origin of 'allow'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Middle English 'alouen,' which means to agree or grant.
Its roots can be traced back to the Old French word 'alouer,' meaning to praise or approve.

The word 'allow' has its origins in Middle English, coming from the Old French word 'alouer' meaning 'approve'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in the English language. The concept of allowing or permitting something has been a fundamental aspect of human societies throughout history, as rules and boundaries are established and maintained. The word 'allow' continues to be a common and essential part of everyday language, used in various contexts to denote permission, possibility, or tolerance.

See also: allowable, allowance, allowed, allowing, disallow.

Word Frequency Rank

At #870 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

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867 hear
868 benefits
869 middle
870 allow
871 peace
872 ability
873 iron
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