they're not allowed

USAGE SUMMARY

'they're not allowed' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone is not allowed to do something. For example: "The children aren't allowed to go to the park without an adult."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They're not allowed to be marginal".

The New York Times - Sports

They're not allowed to be there.

The New Yorker

They're not allowed to leave.

The New York Times - Sports

But they're not allowed to bring paper.

The New York Times

"Now they're not allowed in the garage".

The New York Times - Sports

"They're not allowed to, but it happens.

The New York Times

They feel they're not allowed in".

The Guardian

So perhaps they're not allowed in.

The Guardian

But now they're not allowed to do that.

The Guardian - Opinion

How they're not allowed to just be kids.

The Guardian - Opinion

They're not allowed to interact with the other prisoners.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they're not allowed", clearly state who "they" refers to and what action is being restricted. This avoids ambiguity and ensures your meaning is understood.

Common error

Avoid using "they're not allowed" without specifying the context or duration of the restriction. For example, instead of saying "they're not allowed", specify "they're not allowed to use the equipment without supervision" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they're not allowed" functions as an expression of prohibition or restriction. Ludwig AI confirms it's a correct and usable phrase, indicating its role in stating what actions are forbidden for a particular group.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they're not allowed" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that a group of people is prohibited from doing something. As Ludwig AI indicates, its versatility makes it suitable for various contexts, though it is most frequently found in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject and the prohibited action are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "they are prohibited" or "they are forbidden" for a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are prohibited

Replaces "not allowed" with a more formal synonym, "prohibited".

they are forbidden

Similar to "prohibited", but with a slightly stronger connotation of being against the rules.

they are not permitted

A formal way of saying something is not allowed.

they cannot

A shorter, more direct way of saying that something is not permitted.

they must not

Emphasizes the obligation not to do something.

it is against the rules for them

A more descriptive and explicit way to express the prohibition.

they are restricted from

Implies limitations on their actions.

they haven't permission

Indicates the lack of authorization.

they lack the authority to

Highlights the absence of power or right to do something.

they have no right to

Indicates a lack of entitlement or justification.

FAQs

What does "they're not allowed" mean?

The phrase "they're not allowed" means that a group of people is prohibited or does not have permission to do something. It indicates a restriction or a rule that prevents them from performing a particular action.

How can I use "they're not allowed" in a sentence?

You can use "they're not allowed" to express prohibition. For example: "Students "they're not allowed" to use cell phones during the exam."

What can I say instead of "they're not allowed"?

You can use alternatives like "they are prohibited", "they are forbidden", or "they are not permitted" depending on the context.

Is "they're not allowed to" grammatically correct?

Yes, "they're not allowed to" is grammatically correct. It is a common and acceptable way to express that someone does not have permission to do something.