Another Word for Allow: 15 Synonyms with Examples
To allow is to let someone do something, to make something possible, or to set aside time or money for it. Alternatives vary in formality and in who is giving permission.
As a verb: give permission
- permit
- let
- authorise
- approve
- sanction
- consent to
- tolerate
As a verb: make possible
- enable
- make possible
- let
- facilitate
As a verb: set aside
- set aside
- allocate
- budget
- allot
- plan for
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- permit
- More formal; often used for rules.
- let
- Informal and everyday.
- authorise
- Gives official permission.
- tolerate
- Allows something you don't like.
- enable
- Makes something possible rather than giving permission.
- allocate
- Sets aside resources for a purpose.
Example sentences
- permit: Cycling is not permitted in the park.
- let: My parents let me borrow the car for the weekend.
- authorise: Only a manager can authorise a refund.
- tolerate: The school does not tolerate bullying.
- enable: The ramp enables wheelchair users to reach the stage.
- allocate: We allocated an hour for questions.
Opposite of allow
- forbid
- prohibit
- ban
- prevent
- disallow
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “allow”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: countenance, grant, appropriate, earmark, reserve
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “allow”?
The most useful alternatives are “permit”, “let”, “authorise”, “approve”, “sanction”. For the main sense (give permission), “permit” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “permit” and “let”?
permit: More formal; often used for rules. let: Informal and everyday.
What is the opposite of “allow”?
Common antonyms are “forbid”, “prohibit”, “ban”, “prevent”, “disallow”.