Synonyms for

Allow

Verb / ʌˈlaʊ / Another word for allow — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To give permission for something to happen or to do something

Synonyms & similar words

reserve earmark countenance tolerate disallow appropriate forbid admit prevent setaside allowfor permit leave let giveup takeintoaccount grant deny provide permit authorize sanction approve consent enable entitle grant license tolerate let admit accede yield suffer bear endure facilitate accommodate indulge

Synonyms by register

Formal

permit authorize sanction endorse

Informal

let okay go ahead give the green light

Literary

suffer countenance accord

Antonyms

forbid prohibit disallow ban prevent restrict hinder

Common collocations

  • allow for
  • allow access
  • allow entry
  • allow time
  • allow passage
  • allow freedom
  • allow growth
  • allow flexibility

Word family

noun allowance
verb allow
adjective allowable

Usage note

While 'allow' can mean to permit, it can also mean to make provision for, as in 'allow for unexpected delays'. Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. My parents allowed me to have a sleepover with my friends.
  2. The teacher will not allow talking during the test.
  3. The company allows its employees to work from home on Fridays.
  4. The doctor allowed the patient to go home after the surgery.
  5. The museum does not allow photography inside the exhibits.

Quotes

  • If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy, and inspires your hopes. - Andrew Carnegie
  • Your time is limited, don't waste it living someone else's life. - Steve Jobs
  • Believe you can and you're halfway there. - Theodore Roosevelt

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