allows

USAGE SUMMARY

"allows" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use "allows" when you want to express that something or someone enables or permits something else. Here is an example sentence: The new tax law allows individuals to deduct certain expenses.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This acquisition allows us to secure a large, global platform on which to distribute our increasingly successful original programming through a collection of strong, well-established and well-managed assets worldwide".

The New York Times

XKeyscore An NSA program that allows analysts to search vast databases of emails, online chats and browsing histories of millions of individuals, with no prior authorisation.

The Guardian

It supports them in exam stress and [instead of panicking] it allows them to put space between themselves and a difficult question".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Breathing through the anus allows nymphs to propel themselves through the water with a sudden, turbo-charged burst of speed to escape predators.

The Guardian

Labour MPs admit privately they are all deeply worried about the SNP surge, which allows the SNP to challenge for seats where it was previously a distant also-ran.

The Guardian

The Civil Contingency Act, presented as modernising emergency powers for the age of terrorism, allows ministers in an emergency, which they only have to believe is about to occur, to make practically any provision without reference to parliament.

The Guardian - Opinion

It allows them to see evidence in advance of it being aired at the inquiry and to seek to cross-examine witnesses.

The Guardian

Or something … Like the 'put your cock in a sock for ball cancer' campaign before it and the myriad other attention-seeking memes … the Coke/boob challenge allows people to show off their best assets while pretending that they give a shit.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It allows an audience made up of members of the public local to the area from where the episode is being broadcast, to grill representatives of the main parties as well as notable folks from other spheres of society.

The Guardian

I'd like to sound the less resonant call for a document that allows for dialogue, reflecting concerns as they emerge.

The Guardian

One of the things Pooley enjoys about her discipline, she says, is that it allows athletes to be sociable even during events.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "allows", ensure the subject clearly indicates what is granting the permission or enabling the action. For example, "The software allows users to customize their settings" is clearer than "Users can customize settings."

Common error

Avoid using "allows" when the subject doesn't genuinely enable something. Stating "The idea allows us to succeed" is misleading if the idea is impractical. Instead, ensure that the subject provides real possibility.

Linguistic Context

The word "allows" functions as a third-person singular present tense verb. It indicates that something or someone gives permission or makes it possible for something else to happen. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "allows" is a versatile verb indicating permission or enablement, predominantly found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, noting its grammatical soundness and diverse application. To use "allows" effectively, ensure the subject clearly enables the action described. While alternatives like "permits" or "enables" exist, "allows" strikes a balance between formality and general applicability, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary. Remember to consider the context to select the most appropriate synonym and to ensure that the subject truly facilitates the action described.The correct way to use the word is that it "allows" you to express enablement, permission, or possibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Permits

Implies formal authorization or consent.

Enables

Suggests providing the means or opportunity to do something.

Facilitates

Indicates making an action or process easier.

Authorizes

Conveys formal or legal approval.

Grants

Implies bestowing a privilege or right.

Lets

Informal way of saying permits.

Empowers

Suggests giving someone the power or authority to do something.

Provides for

Indicates making arrangements or preparations for something.

Makes possible

Highlights the creation of a possibility or opportunity.

Opens the door for

Suggests creating an opportunity or possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "allows" in a sentence?

Use "allows" to indicate that something permits or makes something else possible. For example, "The new policy allows employees to work remotely".

What's a more formal synonym for "allows"?

Consider using "permits", "enables", or "authorizes" for a more formal tone. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "allows for" instead of "allows"?

Yes, "allows for" is a valid construction that often introduces a consequence or possibility. For example, "The flexible design allows for future expansion".

What's the difference between "allows" and "lets"?

"Allows" is generally more formal than "lets". Use "allows" in professional or academic contexts, while "lets" is more appropriate for informal settings.