allow for discretion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allow for discretion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations where individuals are given the freedom to make choices or judgments based on their own judgment. Example: "The manager decided to allow for discretion in handling employee requests for remote work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But those guidelines allow for discretion.

The New York Times - Arts

The selection system does not allow for discretion".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Though the policy allows for discretion and does not automatically block those with criminal records, critics say it sets the stage for a discriminatory industry that is unwelcoming to former street dealers.

The Guardian

But those guidelines were voluntary and allow for provider discretion if a patient needs longer supplies or higher doses.

The Washington Post

Some jurisdictions allow for judicial discretion on whether to include juveniles or permit youths to petition to be removed after a number of years.

The New York Times - Magazine

Paul's comments follow a minor controversy Monday stirred by remarks by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R)—another potential 2016 candidate in which he called for "balance" in vaccination requirements in order to allow for parental discretion.

The Washington Post

Unlike perfect duties such as the obligation to justice or honesty, imperfect duties allow for agential discretion over when and with respect to whom to discharge the duty.

SEP

These statutes and policies allow for agency discretion in deciding which ecosystem services to include when considering alternative policies, plans, actions, and even assessments of the economic costs of damages to coastal ecosystems.

Duke University

In keeping with today's lighter tastes, Thomas' new book exercises far more restraint: She'll thin her cream with yogurt, use milk in a cream soup and allow for personal discretion in the administration of olive oil.

Los Angeles Times

Subsidy arm (information + subsidy)—Principals were given the same information as in the information arm, but, because purchasing inputs to reduce anaemia might be difficult with current school operating budgets (which are small and allow for little discretion), schools in this arm also received earmarked operating budget subsidies.

British Medical Journal

The background check in the United States basically just confirms you're not a convicted felon, and it doesn't allow for much police discretion.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "allow for discretion", ensure the context clearly identifies who is being granted the discretion and what decisions they are free to make. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "allow for discretion" without clearly defining who holds the discretionary power and over what matters. Ambiguity can lead to inconsistent application and potential disputes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allow for discretion" functions as a verb phrase. It indicates the act of granting permission or creating conditions that enable someone to exercise their judgment or make choices autonomously. As Ludwig AI underlines, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "allow for discretion" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that empowers individuals to make decisions based on their own judgment. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it is important to use it in contexts where it is clear who is being granted the discretion and what decisions they are free to make. Alternatives such as "permit leeway" or "grant flexibility" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. This phrase is most commonly found in news media, scientific, and academic sources, indicating its broad applicability and acceptability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permit leeway

Emphasizes the granting of freedom from strict rules or guidelines.

grant flexibility

Highlights the provision of adaptability and the ability to adjust to different circumstances.

afford latitude

Stresses the provision of ample scope or freedom of action or thought.

provide flexibility

Similar to "grant flexibility" but focuses on the act of supplying adaptability.

give room to maneuver

Suggests providing space or opportunity for strategic action or decision-making.

authorize autonomy

Implies conferring the power of self-governance or independent decision-making.

enable self-determination

Focuses on empowering someone to make their own choices without external influence.

leave room for interpretation

Highlights the allowance for varying understandings or constructions of something.

entrust with decision-making

Emphasizes the act of conferring the responsibility of making choices.

cede control

Suggests relinquishing authority or power to another party.

FAQs

How can I use "allow for discretion" in a sentence?

You can use "allow for discretion" to indicate that someone has the freedom to make decisions based on their judgment. For example: "The policy will "allow for discretion" in handling individual cases".

What are some alternatives to "allow for discretion"?

Some alternatives to "allow for discretion" include "permit leeway", "grant flexibility", or "afford latitude".

Is it better to "allow discretion" or "provide discretion"?

While both are grammatically correct, "allow for discretion" is generally preferred as it emphasizes the provision of a space or opportunity for discretionary decision-making. "Provide discretion" is also usable but less common.

What's the difference between "allow for discretion" and "require flexibility"?

"Allow for discretion" suggests the option to make individual judgments, while "require flexibility" implies that adapting to different situations is mandatory. The former grants freedom; the latter imposes a need to adjust.