they are allowed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'they are allowed' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used when someone is being given permission to do something. Example: "The children wanted to stay up late, so I told them they are allowed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They are allowed to go out.

Independent

They are allowed not to.

The Guardian

They are allowed quirks but no tragedy.

The New York Times - Books

They are allowed to keep $100.

The New York Times

"They are allowed only one suitcase.

The Guardian - Books

They are allowed to speak their language.

The Guardian - Opinion

So they are allowed to have it.

The New Yorker

They are allowed to be professional.

The New York Times - Sports

They are allowed to speak for themselves.

The New York Times

They are allowed a 90-second break between sets.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

They are allowed to have their personal space.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are allowed", ensure that the context clearly indicates who is granting the permission and what the boundaries of that permission are. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming "they are allowed" implies unrestricted freedom. Always clarify any limitations or conditions associated with the permission granted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are allowed" functions as a declarative statement indicating permission or authorization. It is used to convey that a specific group has been granted the right to perform a particular action. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they are allowed" is a common and grammatically sound way to express permission or authorization. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Its versatility allows it to be used across a broad spectrum of contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and formal business communications. While it suggests permission, it's crucial to provide context on who grants the permission and any limitations involved. Alternatives like "they are permitted" or "they have permission" can be used to vary your language while maintaining similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they have permission

Focuses on the concept of granting permission, emphasizing the act of allowing something.

they are permitted

Uses a more formal synonym for "allowed", suggesting official authorization.

they are authorized

Implies that someone has given official approval for them to do something.

they are entitled

Suggests they have a right or claim to do something, not just permission.

it is permissible for them

A more formal and somewhat indirect way of expressing permission.

they have the right

Emphasizes a legal or moral entitlement to do something.

they are free to

Highlights the lack of restrictions preventing them from doing something.

they can

A simpler way of expressing ability and permission to do something.

they may

Another concise way to indicate permission or possibility.

they are not prohibited

Focuses on the absence of a ban, rather than the explicit granting of permission.

FAQs

How can I use "they are allowed" in a sentence?

Use "they are allowed" to indicate that a group or individuals have permission to do something. For example, "Students are usually not allowed to leave class early, but today "they are allowed" because of the special event".

What is a formal synonym for "they are allowed"?

A more formal synonym is "they are permitted", which suggests official authorization or consent.

Is there a difference between "they are allowed" and "they are able"?

"They are allowed" implies permission, whereas "they are able" suggests capability or skill. One indicates authorization, the other indicates capacity.

What can I say instead of "they are allowed" to emphasize a right?

To emphasize a right rather than just permission, you can say "they are entitled" or "they have the right".