allow
The teacher allows students to use calculators during the exam.
The teacher gives permission for students to use calculators.
To let someone do something; to give permission.
Smoking is not allowed in this building.
The building does not permit smoking.
The software allows users to edit images easily.
The software enables users to edit images without difficulty.
Often followed by a noun phrase or 'to' + verb.
To make something possible; to permit.
The new bridge allows traffic to flow smoothly.
The new bridge facilitates uninterrupted traffic flow.
Common in engineering contexts to describe enabling functionality.
To admit or concede; to acknowledge.
He allowed that the plan had some flaws.
He admitted that the plan had some flaws.
Used in formal or literary contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Prepositions with 'allow'
Use 'to' when followed by a verb ('allow someone to do something'). Use 'for' when referring to a situation or time ('allow for delays').
Gold Rule
Permission vs. Possibility
'Allow' primarily means 'give permission,' but it can also mean 'make possible.' Context determines the meaning.
Word Origin
From Old French 'alouer' (to place, allow), from Latin 'allocare' (to place, allocate), from 'ad-' (to) + 'locare' (to place). The sense of 'giving permission' developed in Middle English.
Usage Notes
Commonly followed by a noun phrase ('allow time') or 'to' + verb ('allow to enter'). In formal writing, 'allow' can mean 'admit' or 'concede'.