Allow of sth Meaning, Examples & How to Use in English

What Does “Allow of sth” Mean?

“Allow of sth” means to make something possible or to admit that something can happen. It is often used to express whether a situation permits a certain action or condition.

Introduction

The phrase “allow of sth” is a formal or somewhat old-fashioned expression used in English to indicate whether a particular circumstance or condition permits something to happen. The “sth” stands for “something,” meaning the phrase is usually followed by a noun or noun phrase. For example, “The situation does not allow of any mistakes” means that the situation does not permit mistakes to occur. Understanding the “allow of sth meaning” helps learners use this phrase correctly, especially in formal writing or speech. It is different from the more common “allow something,” which means to give permission. Instead, “allow of sth” focuses on the possibility or feasibility of something within a context.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: allow of something
• Type: transitive (requires an object)
• Level: C1 (Advanced)
• Short meaning: to admit or permit something to be possible

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Allow of sth” is an inseparable phrasal verb. That means you cannot separate “allow” and “of” with the object. The pattern is:

• Subject + allow + of + something

Example: “The plan allows of no delay.”

Note: “sth” is a placeholder for “something,” usually a noun or noun phrase.

How to Use “Allow of sth”?

This phrase is typically used in formal contexts to discuss whether a situation or condition permits or makes something possible. It often appears in negative or restrictive statements, emphasizing limitations or possibilities. Use it when you want to say that a certain condition either permits or does not permit something to happen.

Examples

• The rules do not allow of any exceptions.
• This narrow road does not allow of two cars passing at the same time.
• The evidence allows of only one conclusion.
• The schedule allows of little flexibility.
• Allow of sth in a sentence: The design does not allow of easy repairs.

Common Mistakes

• Incorrect: The situation allows for mistakes.
  Correct: The situation does not allow of mistakes.
• Incorrect: This plan allows of to change.
  Correct: This plan allows of no changes.
• Incorrect: The rules allow mistakes.
  Correct: The rules do not allow of mistakes.

Differences / Synonyms

Allow of sth differs from allow sth. “Allow sth” means to give permission directly, e.g., “The teacher allows phones in class.” In contrast, “allow of sth” means that something is possible or permitted by circumstances.

Synonyms: permit, admit, tolerate (in formal contexts). However, “allow of sth” is more formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation.

Common Collocations

• allow of no mistakes
• allow of exceptions
• allow of flexibility
• allow of delay
• allow of changes

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of allow of sth:

• Allow For Sth

Real-life Dialogue

Anna: Can we make any changes to the project deadline?

Ben: Unfortunately, the schedule doesn’t allow of any delay.

Anna: So we have to finish everything on time?

Ben: Yes, the plan allows of no exceptions.

Practice

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of “allow of”:

1. The narrow bridge __________ two vehicles to pass at once.
2. This contract does not __________ any changes.
3. The rules __________ of no exceptions.

FAQs

• Q: Is “allow of sth” the same as “allow sth”?
  A: No, “allow of sth” means to make something possible, while “allow sth” means to give permission.
• Q: Can I use “allow of sth” in informal conversations?
  A: It is more common in formal writing or speech, but can be used in formal conversations.
• Q: What does “sth” mean in “allow of sth”?
  A: “sth” is short for “something,” a placeholder for a noun.
• Q: Is “allow of” separable?
  A: No, “allow of” is inseparable; the object must come after “of.”
• Q: Can “allow of” be used in negative sentences?
  A: Yes, it is often used in negative or restrictive sentences.