they allow that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they allow that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone acknowledges or permits a certain idea or fact. Example: "In their discussion, they allow that there may be alternative solutions to the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The Phelpses are not America's most hated family because of their faith in God but because of the way they allow that faith to manifest itself.

The Guardian - Opinion

While they allow that with enough apologies and true sharing of power Mr. Chen might still save his political neck, leaders of the Nationalists and Mr. Soong's newly formed People's First Party now freely talk about forcing him from office.

The New York Times

Is it true that some of the children are heathen?" "Father, I don't think they allow that word anymore–" "I'm asking the child, Doonan – don't tell me what I can and can't say!

The Guardian

They allow that".

Forbes

They allow that certain developments occur spontaneously, but also see disaster and decline as inevitable.

SEP

These priests are being blatantly contradictory: they allow that women can speak the word of God, and yet they deny that women can speak the word of God.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

"It's horrific that they would allow that house to be knocked down," Berry says.

The New York Times - Magazine

They must allow that, sure, time with one's family is good and that's what other conservatives might use free time for… but there is an other.

The Guardian - Opinion

Subjectivists can say that belief in the external world is justified, but they must allow that skepticism is justified too.

SEP

Cost is not an issue, according to Firestone executives, though they do allow that financial repercussions might have occupied the minds of a few bean counters at Bridgestone.

Forbes

They fear Moscow is the next target, and said they were marching to show they will not allow that.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they allow that", ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. This is particularly important in formal or academic writing where precision is key.

Common error

Avoid using "they allow that" interchangeably with stronger affirmative phrases. It implies a degree of acceptance, not necessarily complete agreement or endorsement. Using it incorrectly can weaken your argument or misrepresent the source's position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they allow that" functions as a concessive marker. It introduces a statement that acknowledges or concedes a particular point, often setting the stage for a contrasting or qualifying statement. Ludwig AI suggests this conveys a balanced perspective.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they allow that" is a commonly used phrase that functions as a concessive marker, indicating acknowledgment or acceptance of a point before presenting a contrasting perspective. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including academic, news, and general writing. It conveys a neutral tone and demonstrates awareness of different viewpoints. Related alternatives include "they concede that" and "they admit that". Remember to use the phrase accurately to reflect the intended nuance of concession or acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they concede that

Emphasizes reluctant admission or acknowledgment.

they admit that

Focuses on openly acknowledging something, often something previously unacknowledged.

they acknowledge that

Highlights recognizing the existence or truth of something.

they grant that

Suggests a formal or official acknowledgment of a point.

they recognize that

Emphasizes understanding and accepting a particular reality.

they accept that

Indicates agreement or willingness to believe something.

they understand that

Highlights comprehension and acceptance of a concept or situation.

they realize that

Suggests a sudden awareness or understanding of something.

they appreciate that

Emphasizes valuing or recognizing the importance of something.

they concur that

Indicates agreement or alignment of opinion.

FAQs

How can I use "they allow that" in a sentence?

Use "they allow that" to introduce a point that is conceded or acknowledged, often before presenting a contrasting perspective. For example, "They allow that the initial data was promising, but further research is needed."

What does "they allow that" mean?

It means that a group or entity acknowledges or concedes a particular point, often with some reservation or qualification. It implies acceptance of something as true or valid, even if not fully embraced.

Which is correct, "they allow that" or "they said that"?

Both are correct, but they have different meanings. "They allow that" implies concession or acceptance, while "they said that" simply reports a statement. Use "they said that" when you want to report what someone stated, and "they allow that" when you want to show that they are conceding a point.

What can I say instead of "they allow that"?

You can use alternatives like "they concede that", "they admit that", or "they acknowledge that" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.