Definition

Verb: To include or consider something as a factor when making a plan or calculation; to make provision or leave space for something, such as a possibility, an error, or an extra amount of time.

Usage

This verb is used to indicate that one is making plans or calculations that are flexible enough to accommodate potential variables, such as delays, errors, or unforeseen circumstances. It is often followed by a noun or noun phrase.

Examples

• When planning the schedule, we must allow for traffic delays.
• The budget should allow for unexpected expenses.
• This recipe allows for substitutions if you don't have all the ingredients.
• You need to allow for the fact that he is a beginner.

Advanced Usage

• "To allow for the possibility of...": To explicitly consider that something might happen.
  • The design allows for the possibility of future expansion.
• Used in formal or procedural contexts to mean "to make provision for."
  • The contract allows for early termination under specific conditions.

Variants and Related Words

• Allowance (n): An amount of something, especially money or time, that is permitted or set aside. Often used in the phrase "make allowance(s) for," which is very similar in meaning to "allow for."
  • We need to make allowances for travel time.

Synonyms

• Account for: To take into consideration.
• Make provision for: To prepare for a possible future event or need.
• Take into account: To consider something when making a decision.
• Factor in: To include something as a relevant element.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Allow of (formal): To permit or admit. It is less common and more formal than "allow for."
  • The situation does not allow of any delay.

Related Idioms

• To leave room for: To provide space or opportunity for something.
  • The plan is strict but leaves room for flexibility.
• To build in: To include something as an integral part of a plan or system.
  • We built in extra time for questions.

Verb

1. make a possibility or provide opportunity for; permit to be attainable or cause to remain
   • This leaves no room for improvement
   • The evidence allows only one conclusion
   • allow for mistakes
   • leave lots of time for the trip
   • This procedure provides for lots of leeway