allow him to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allow him to be" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to express permission or consent to let someone do something. For example, "My parents allowed me to be independent and make my own decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Shelter authorities declined to allow him to be interviewed.

The New York Times

"We will allow him to be himself," she said.

The New York Times

These two new roles will allow him to be both.

The Guardian - Sport

This would allow him to be briefed on intelligence matters.

The Guardian

It should not allow him to be convicted upon a confession wrung from another by coercion.

Cornell University

If he were really in peril, she said, doctors would never allow him to be moved.

The New York Times - Books

It doesn't allow him to be a candidate," says Jorge Santistevan, Peru's independent ombudsman.

The Economist

We have to stop waiting for him to be great and allow him to be good.

The New York Times

"His fundamentals won't allow him to be an accurate quarterback," Edwards said.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, Bezos's wealth may allow him to be unconcerned about profits, others noted.

The Washington Post

He and his attorneys have asked Friedman to allow him to be released permanently.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "allow him to be", consider the implications of permission and enablement. Ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is being allowed to do or become.

Common error

Avoid using "allow him to be" when the situation requires active support or encouragement, rather than just permission. In such cases, consider stronger verbs like 'help', 'support', or 'enable'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allow him to be" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically acting as a verb complement. It expresses permission or enablement for a specific state or action. As Ludwig AI explains, it is correct and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "allow him to be" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions primarily to grant permission or enable a state of being. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is indeed correct to use. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals its common presence in "News & Media", "Academia" and "Science", indicating broad applicability. While generally neutral in register, consider the context to choose the most appropriate alternative if stronger verbs are required to emphasize active support. To enhance writing precision, note the potential error of implying simple allowance where proactive support is more fitting. Be sure to consider related phrases such as "permit him to exist as" or "let him be himself", each bringing slightly different nuances to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let him be himself

Highlights the concept of allowing someone to express their true nature without restrictions. Strong semantic link but focuses on self-expression.

permit him to exist as

Emphasizes the act of letting someone continue in their current state or identity. Slight difference of nuance.

enable him to become

Focuses on facilitating a transition or growth into a new state. Implies more active support.

empower him to be

Suggests providing the means or authority for someone to fully realize their potential. Implies a strengthening aspect.

give him leave to be

A more formal and somewhat archaic alternative, suggesting formal permission. Significant difference in formality.

approve of him being

Indicates acceptance or agreement with someone's current situation. Direct expression of approval.

authorize him to act as

Emphasizes giving official approval for someone to perform a specific role. Highlights authorization rather than general allowance.

accommodate his being

Focuses on making adjustments to allow someone to exist comfortably in a particular environment. Highlights adaptation and support.

sanction his being

Implies a formal or official endorsement of someone's existence or state. Stronger emphasis on legitimacy.

tolerate him as

Suggests acceptance despite potential disapproval or dislike, implying a reluctant allowance. Conveys a sense of forbearance.

FAQs

How can I use "allow him to be" in a sentence?

You can use "allow him to be" to indicate permission or enabling. For example, "The company's flexible policies "allow him to be" more creative in his role." Or, "His parents "allow him to be" independent."

What's a more formal way to say "allow him to be"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "permit him to be" or "authorize him to be". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality. For example, "The regulations permit him to be considered for the position".

What is the difference between "allow him to be" and "let him be"?

"Allow him to be" generally implies a more formal or conscious decision to permit something. "Let him be" is more informal and can suggest a passive acceptance or lack of intervention. They are often interchangeable, but the nuance differs. Consider the level of formality you need for your writing.

In what situations should I avoid using "allow him to be"?

While grammatically correct, "allow him to be" might not be suitable when the context requires a stronger, more active verb. If you want to emphasize active support or enablement, consider alternatives like "help him become" or "empower him to be".