make allowances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'make allowances' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to mean that one should allow for some difference, or to excuse something that has happened. For example, "My sister is usually late for dinner, so I always have to make allowances for her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When you love something, you make allowances.

The New Yorker

Let alone make allowances for it.

The Guardian - Books

I said, "You know, we must make allowances for originality".

The New York Times

They didn't make allowances for me because of my height.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And you have to make allowances for the antiquated technology.

The New York Times - Arts

It's thinking of each other and being able to make allowances.

Independent

When you've got four kids and a wife, usually somebody has to make allowances.

Independent

Investors and regulators could, if they chose, make allowances for depressed markets.

The New York Times

And so she would have to be gracious and make allowances.

The Guardian

But we have to make allowances for the hard of hearing.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They will even make allowances when a school does not deliver fully on its promises.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make allowances" to indicate understanding and acceptance of imperfections or special circumstances. It suggests a flexible and tolerant approach.

Common error

Avoid using "make allowances" as a justification for consistently unacceptable behavior. It's about understanding occasional deviations, not enabling ongoing issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make allowances" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of considering or permitting something due to specific circumstances. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, suggesting flexibility and understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make allowances" is a versatile and commonly used expression that means to consider or permit something due to particular circumstances. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It is frequently found in news and media, scientific publications, and general-purpose wikis, suggesting its applicability across a spectrum of communication contexts. When using "make allowances", remember that it signifies understanding and accommodation, but should not be used to justify continuous or unacceptable behavior. Consider alternatives like "show consideration" or ""take into account"" to fine-tune your message and always ensure correct use with the preposition "for".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take into account

Highlights the action of considering something important when making a decision or judgment.

give leeway

Implies providing someone with freedom or flexibility to act.

grant concessions

Shifts the focus to actively granting exceptions or special considerations.

bear in mind

Focuses on remembering or being aware of something relevant.

accommodate needs

Highlights actively adjusting to someone's requirements.

show consideration

Emphasizes the act of being thoughtful and understanding of someone's situation.

be understanding of limitations

Emphasizes empathy and acceptance of restrictions.

make exceptions

Suggests actively deviating from a rule or standard.

excuse shortcomings

Focuses on forgiving or justifying someone's failings.

overlook flaws

Highlights ignoring imperfections or weaknesses.

FAQs

How can I use "make allowances" in a sentence?

You can use "make allowances" to show that you understand and accept certain behaviors or situations. For example, "We need to "take into account" the traffic when planning our arrival time".

What's a good alternative to "make allowances"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "show consideration", ""take into account"", or "give leeway" as alternatives to "make allowances".

Is it correct to say "making allowances" instead of "make allowances"?

Yes, "making allowances" is correct, but it's the gerund form of the verb. "Make allowances" is the base form, which is generally used in sentences expressing general truths. In contrast, "making allowances" focuses on the activity itself, for example: "Making exceptions can sometimes be necessary".

What is the difference between "make allowances for" and "make excuses for"?

"Make allowances for" implies understanding and accommodating circumstances, while "make excuses for" means providing justifications for inappropriate or unacceptable behavior. It's about being understanding versus offering a rationalization for something negative.