allow us

USAGE SUMMARY

"allow us" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are asking for permission to do something. For example: "Could you please allow us to use the copy machine?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So allow us.

The New York Times

You must allow us that.

The New Yorker

Allow us to enlighten you.

Independent

Allow us to elucidate.

The Guardian - Music

Please, allow us.

The New York Times - Sports

Maybe she would allow us ice cream.

The New Yorker

Mr. Speaker, allow us a vote".

The New Yorker

These guys won't allow us to.

The New York Times

But allow us our differences.

The Guardian - Opinion

If only Barker would allow us near.

The Guardian

They allow us to eliminate the cheats".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "allow us" when you want to politely introduce an explanation, suggestion, or request permission, setting a respectful and formal tone. It is useful in professional communication, presentations, or when addressing someone in authority.

Common error

Avoid using "allow us" in casual conversations or informal writing. Overuse can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "let us" or direct statements to maintain a natural flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allow us" functions primarily as a polite introductory phrase. It sets the stage for a request, suggestion, or explanation, often used to gain the audience's attention and goodwill. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "allow us" is a versatile phrase used to politely introduce an action, explanation, or suggestion. As Ludwig AI states, it is a grammatically correct and usable phrase. Its formality lends itself well to professional and news contexts, while it may feel out of place in more casual settings. Remember that while "allow us" is correct it can be interchanged with alternatives such as "permit us" or the more casual "let us" depending on the situation. Being mindful of your audience and the tone you wish to convey is crucial when deciding whether to use the phrase "allow us".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permit us

Similar in meaning, replacing "allow" with "permit" offers a slightly more formal tone.

let us

A more informal and direct synonym for "allow us".

kindly allow us

Adds a polite tone by including "kindly".

may we

A more formal way to request permission.

if you would allow us

A conditional phrasing of the request, adding a layer of politeness.

authorize us

Focuses on the act of giving authority or official permission.

grant us permission

More explicit about the permission being requested.

we ask that you allow us

Emphasizes the request by framing it as a direct plea.

we request permission

Formal way of asking to do something.

consider allowing us

Invites consideration of granting permission, softening the request.

FAQs

What does "allow us" mean?

"Allow us" is a polite phrase used to ask for permission or introduce an explanation or suggestion. It's often used in formal contexts.

How can I use "allow us" in a sentence?

You can use "allow us" to make a polite request, such as "Allow us to explain" or "Allow us to demonstrate".

Which is better, "allow us" or "let us"?

"Allow us" is more formal and polite, suitable for professional or respectful settings. "Let us" is more casual and appropriate for informal contexts.

What are some alternatives to "allow us"?

Some alternatives to "allow us" include "permit us", "may we", or "if you would allow us", depending on the level of formality required.