allowed to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allowed to be" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express permission. For example, "My parents allowed me to be part of the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Men were allowed to be cocky.

The New York Times - Sports

Senior citizens are allowed to be grumpy.

The New York Times

You're allowed to be intellectual again.

Independent

She is allowed to be human".

The New York Times - Arts

They're not allowed to be there.

The New Yorker

Only abstinence is allowed to be taught.

Independent

They're not allowed to be marginal".

The New York Times - Sports

allowed to be selfish?

The New Yorker

It's allowed to be crap.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We're allowed to be aggressive.

The New York Times - Sports

No. We're not allowed to be political.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "allowed to be", ensure the context clearly indicates who is granting the permission or what enables the possibility. For example, "Students are allowed to be late twice without penalty" is clearer than "It is allowed to be late."

Common error

Avoid assuming permission when it hasn't been explicitly granted. Just because something isn't forbidden doesn't mean it's "allowed to be" done. Always seek clarification when unsure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allowed to be" functions as a passive construction indicating permission or possibility. It is typically used with a subject to express that the subject has been granted the right or opportunity to be in a certain state or to perform a certain action. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples demonstrating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "allowed to be" is a versatile phrase used to express permission or possibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, notably News & Media and Science. While maintaining a neutral register, it's essential to use this phrase with clarity, ensuring the source of permission is evident. Remember that implied permission is not the same as explicitly being "allowed to be". For more formal alternatives, consider "permitted to be" or "authorized to be". Overall, understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permitted to exist

Replaces "allowed" with "permitted" and focuses on the state of existence.

authorized to happen

Emphasizes formal approval or authorization for an event or action.

entitled to

Indicates a right or qualification to have or do something.

able to exist

Focuses on the possibility or capability of existing in a certain state.

has the right to be

Highlights the inherent right or entitlement to be in a certain condition or place.

given leave to be

Implies a formal granting of permission or leave.

free to

Emphasizes the freedom or lack of restriction in being or doing something.

eligible to be

Specifies that someone or something meets the requirements to be in a particular state or condition.

sanctioned to be

Indicates official approval or endorsement.

empowered to be

Suggests that someone or something has been given the power or authority to be in a certain state.

FAQs

How can I use "allowed to be" in a sentence?

Use "allowed to be" to indicate permission or possibility. For instance, "Employees are "allowed to be" flexible with their hours" or "The boundaries are "allowed to be" irregular".

What's a more formal alternative to "allowed to be"?

In formal contexts, consider using "permitted to be" or "authorized to be". These alternatives convey a similar meaning but with a more official tone.

Is there a difference between "allowed to be" and "supposed to be"?

"Allowed to be" indicates permission, while "supposed to be" implies expectation or obligation. For example, "You are "allowed to be" here" means you have permission, but "You are "supposed to be" here" means you are expected to be here.

Can "allowed to be" be used in negative sentences?

Yes, "allowed to be" can be used in negative sentences to indicate something is not permitted. For instance, "Students are not "allowed to be" on their phones during class".