allow time

USAGE SUMMARY

"allow time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to the time that is needed to do something or for something to happen. For example: "Allow time for the paint to dry before you add a second coat."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

1. Allow time for drawing.

Yale University

Parking is limited, so allow time to find a space.

The New York Times - Travel

The routine didn't allow time for sadness or sympathy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Our bodies will recover by themselves if you allow time.

The New York Times - Health

But he must also allow time for his studies.

The New York Times

Please allow time for processing.

Johns Hopkins University

The pilot will also allow time for broader reflection.

BMJ Open

Preoperative haemoglobin measurement (28 days) should allow time for treatment.

British Journal of Anaesthesia

Prioritized schedules must allow time for family.

WikiHow

Train hard, but allow time for recovery.

WikiHow

Just allow time to heal your wounds.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning a project, "allow time" for unexpected delays. This proactive approach helps to ensure deadlines are met even when unforeseen circumstances arise.

Common error

Avoid underestimating the time required for tasks. Accurately assessing how much time a task needs and then adding a buffer is crucial; failing to do so often leads to rushed work and increased stress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allow time" functions as a directive, advising or suggesting the allocation of adequate time for a specific activity or process. It indicates that sufficient time should be considered or provided for optimal execution. Ludwig confirms the phrase's correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

25%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "allow time" is a versatile expression used to recommend or advise the allocation of sufficient time for a particular activity or process. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English. It appears frequently in various contexts, including Wiki, News & Media, and Academia, with a neutral to slightly informal register. When using the phrase, consider allocating the right amount of time needed, and a buffer for unexpected delays to ensure a smoother outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allocate sufficient time

Replaces "allow" with "allocate" and "time" with "sufficient time", emphasizing the intentional allocation of time.

provide ample time

Replaces "allow" with "provide" and "time" with "ample time", stressing the provision of a generous amount of time.

set aside time

Uses "set aside" instead of "allow", highlighting the act of reserving time for a specific purpose.

make time for

Replaces "allow time" with the idiomatic expression "make time for", indicating an effort to create time for something.

leave time for

Uses "leave time for", suggesting that time is being intentionally left over or reserved.

schedule time for

Replaces "allow" with "schedule", focusing on the planning and scheduling of time.

dedicate time to

Uses "dedicate" instead of "allow", emphasizing the commitment of time to a specific activity.

budget time for

Replaces "allow" with "budget", highlighting the careful management and allocation of time as a resource.

factor in time

Uses "factor in", suggesting that time should be considered and included in calculations or plans.

build in time

Replaces "allow" with "build in", emphasizing the incorporation of time into a process or schedule from the beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "allow time" effectively in a sentence?

Use "allow time" to suggest setting aside sufficient time for something to happen. For example, "Allow time for the glue to dry completely before handling the project."

What's a formal alternative to "allow time"?

In a more formal context, you can use phrases like "allocate sufficient time" or "provide ample time" to convey a similar meaning with increased formality.

Is it okay to use "allow time" in academic writing?

Yes, "allow time" is acceptable in academic writing, especially when discussing research methodology or project management. For instance, "The pilot will also "allow time" for broader reflection."

What are some common things I should "allow time" for?

Common examples include: "allowing time for recovery" after an illness, "allowing time for processing" a request, or "allowing time for reflection" on a project.