What does the phrasal verb “allow for” mean?

What are the definitions of “allow for”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Include something in a plan or calculation.

  You should ALLOW FOR delays when planning a journey.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “allow for”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb allow for is to include something in a plan or calculation, usually to make sure there is enough time, space, or resources for it. This means considering possible changes or problems that may happen.

What are the different verb forms of “allow for”?

Root Verb	allow for
Third Person Singular Present	allows for
Present Participle	allowing for
Simple Past	allowed for
Past Participle	allowed for

Example

When planning a trip, it's important to allow for unexpected events.

Example

She always allows for extra time when traveling to the airport.

Example

He is allowing for possible traffic when deciding when to leave for work.

Example

They allowed for additional expenses when creating their budget.

Example

The schedule was well-planned and allowed for breaks between sessions.

What kind of phrasal verb is “allow for”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“allow for” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

We need to allow for extra time in case of traffic.

Example

The budget allows for unexpected costs.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“allow for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

We need to allow for extra time in case of traffic.

Example

The budget allows for unexpected costs.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “allow for”?

Allow for the possibility

To consider or accept the idea that something might happen or be true.

Example

We should allow for the possibility that the weather might change our plans.

Allow for changes

To make plans flexible enough to accommodate possible changes or adjustments.

Example

The project timeline allows for changes in case we need to revise our approach.

Allow for growth

To plan for and accommodate the potential for expansion or development.

Example

The design of the building allows for growth as the company expands.

Good things to know

Does “allow for” have an informal or formal tone?

Allow for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “allow for”?

Synonyms

• consider
• anticipate
• accommodate
• take into account
• plan for
• make allowances for
• provide for

Antonyms

• ignore
• disregard
• overlook
• exclude
• neglect
• omit