Meaning of Allow
In simple words: to let someone do something
Allow in a sentence
- Please allow me to explain my point of view.
- The teacher will not allow students to use their phones during the exam.
- His parents do not allow him to stay out late.
- The store allows returns within 30 days of purchase.
- She decided to allow her friend to borrow her book.
How to use Allow
Use 'allow' in contexts where you are giving permission. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English, but for severe situations or commands, consider using stronger words like 'permit'. Avoid using it in very casual exchanges.
Grammar pattern
allow + object + to + verb
Memory hint
Sounds like 'a-loud' — imagine giving permission by raising your voice!
Related words
Collocations with Allow
- allow access
- allow time
- allow someone to do something
- allow for mistakes
- allow room
Synonyms for Allow
Common mistakes with Allow
- Using 'allow' without an object (e.g., say 'allow me to help' instead of just 'allow').
- Confusing 'allow' with 'let' - 'let' is more informal.
- Mixing up the structure, such as omitting 'to' before the verb.
Compare Allow with Permit, Enable, Authorize, Grant, Facilitate
Allow appears in
Allow in other languages
More words like Allow
People also search for
- Allow meaning
- meaning of Allow
- Allow definition
- define Allow
- what does Allow mean
- Allow means
- how to use Allow
Frequently asked questions about Allow
What does Allow mean?
to let someone do something
What is the definition of Allow?
to let somebody/something do something; to let something happen or be done
How do you use Allow in a sentence?
Please allow me to explain my point of view.
Can you give another example of Allow?
The teacher will not allow students to use their phones during the exam.
What are synonyms for Allow?
Common alternatives include permit, enable, authorize, grant, facilitate.
What is the opposite of Allow?
Opposite meanings include forbid, prohibit, restrict.
What words go with Allow?
It commonly pairs with allow access, allow time, allow someone to do something, allow for mistakes, allow room.
What are common mistakes when using Allow?
Using 'allow' without an object (e.g., say 'allow me to help' instead of just 'allow'). Confusing 'allow' with 'let' - 'let' is more informal. Mixing up the structure, such as omitting 'to' before the verb.
How do you pronounce Allow?
US: /["/əˈlaʊ/","/əˈlaʊz/","/əˈlaʊd/","/əˈlaʊɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/əˈlaʊ/","/əˈlaʊz/","/əˈlaʊd/","/əˈlaʊɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
When should I use Allow?
Use 'allow' in contexts where you are giving permission. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English, but for severe situations or commands, consider using stronger words like 'permit'. Avoid using it in very casual exchanges.
What CEFR level is Allow?
"Allow" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.















