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Definition allow in British English

allow verb

[transitive] verb
/əˈlaʊ/
1

to give someone permission to do or have something

Example

I'm sorry, sir, but smoking is not allowed.

Example

She only allows the children to watch television at weekends.

Example

I'm not allowed to drive my dad's car.

Example

Some prisoners are allowed visitors.

Example

I'm on a diet but I allow myself an occasional piece of cake.

Example

If you leave the club, you will not be allowed back in.

Synonyms and related words
2

to give someone or something the time or opportunity to do something

Example

Allow the cake to cool for five minutes before taking it out of the tin.

Example

Unfortunately, they didn't allow me to explain the thinking behind my decision.

Synonyms and related words
2.1

if something such as an object or situation allows you to do something, it makes it possible for you to do it

Example

DVD allows you to record programmes and watch them later.

Synonyms and related words
3

to make certain that you have enough of something such as time, food, or money for a particular purpose

Example

Please allow 28 days for delivery.

Example

How much rice do you allow for each person?

Synonyms and related words
4

to decide that a piece of information is acceptable in a court of law

Example

This evidence will not be allowed in court.

Synonyms and related words
5

to admit or accept that something is true

Example

She allowed that the matter was serious.

Synonyms and related words
Definition allow in British English