allow for emergency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allow for emergency" is not entirely correct in English; it would be better as "allow for emergencies." You can use it when discussing the need to make provisions or preparations for unexpected situations or crises.
Example: "We need to allow for emergencies in our budget planning to ensure we can handle any unforeseen expenses."

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Governments must guard against corporate interests and pressures and review budget priorities to allow for emergency measures in relation to housing, infrastructure or public policies targeting the most vulnerable sectors of the population.

The Guardian - Opinion

These devices would be able to supply power for safety equipment and allow for emergency repairs in areas without power.

Applied Energy

On ground-level tracks, the third rail alternates from one side of the track to the other, providing breaks in the third rail to allow for emergency evacuations.

Wikipedia

Further, such an arrangement might allow for emergency interruptions or scheduled wake-times; such specificity is prohibited by the crude sleep medications used today.

Plosone

Key informant interviews showed that the Public Procurement Act (Act 663, 2003) did not allow for emergency purchases.

BMC Health Services Research

Suggestions included increasing the number of ambulances, numbering houses for easier ambulance dispatch, increasing the number of healthcare facilities or clinics in remote areas and increasing clinic hours to allow for emergency care at all hours of the day.

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Routine maintenance tasks must be performed on schedule, but the schedule must be flexible enough to allow for emergencies.

WikiHow

Diplomats said drafts of a provisional constitutional order allowing for emergency rule had been prepared.

The New York Times

The new Iraqi government, led by Dr. Allawi, has vowed a tough line against insurgents and has passed a law allowing for emergency measures like curfews and bans on public demonstrations.

The New York Times

B1 New Convention Security A top New York police officer defended plans to use four-sided barricades to control demonstrators at the Republican National Convention, saying the police want to keep streets open to allow for an emergency evacuation of the area.

The New York Times

The system will be shut down to allow for an emergency inspection of its third rail power cables, Wiedefeld said.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "allow for emergency", ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to a singular emergency event or the general possibility of emergencies. Using the plural form "emergencies" is often clearer and more accurate.

Common error

Avoid using "allow for emergency" when you mean to account for multiple potential emergencies. The phrase can sound awkward if it's not clear that you're thinking about more than one possible urgent situation. Prefer the plural form, unless the context refers to a unique emergency plan.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allow for emergency" functions primarily as a directive, urging the creation of capacity or resources to accommodate unexpected urgent situations. Ludwig examples show it in contexts where plans or budgets need to be flexible.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "allow for emergency" suggests making preparations or creating capacity for unexpected urgent situations. While acceptable, Ludwig AI suggests that it's often clearer to use the plural form "emergencies". The phrase appears in various contexts, including science, news, and general discussions, indicating a neutral register. To avoid ambiguity, ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to a single event or the general possibility of crises. Alternatives include "prepare for emergencies" and "plan for contingencies".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prepare for emergencies

Focuses on the act of getting ready for potential urgent situations.

make provisions for emergencies

Emphasizes setting aside resources or plans specifically for unexpected events.

plan for contingencies

Highlights the aspect of planning for various possible scenarios, including emergencies.

take into account unforeseen circumstances

Broader than just emergencies, this phrase considers any unexpected event.

anticipate emergency situations

Focuses on foreseeing potential crises and being ready.

provide for unforeseen events

Stresses the act of ensuring resources are available for unexpected occurrences.

accommodate urgent needs

Highlights the act of adapting to immediate and pressing requirements.

factor in potential crises

Emphasizes including the possibility of crises in calculations or plans.

consider emergency protocols

Focuses on the established procedures for dealing with emergencies.

be prepared for critical incidents

Highlights readiness for significant and impactful events.

FAQs

Is it more correct to say "allow for emergency" or "allow for emergencies"?

While "allow for emergency" is sometimes used, "allow for emergencies" is generally preferred as it usually implies planning for multiple potential events rather than just one.

What does "allow for emergency" mean?

It means to make provisions or preparations to accommodate unexpected urgent situations or crises. It suggests a proactive approach to ensure readiness for potential problems.

How can I rephrase "allow for emergency" in a business context?

In a professional setting, you could use phrases like "plan for contingencies", "make provisions for emergencies", or "account for unforeseen events".

What's the difference between "allow for emergency" and "prepare for emergency"?

"Allow for emergency" suggests creating space or resources to handle a crisis, while "prepare for emergency" focuses on taking actions to get ready for a potential crisis.