allow for

phrasal verb

allowed for; allowing for; allows for
1
: to think about or plan for (something that will or might happen in the future)
When purchasing property, the company should allow for possible future growth/expansion.
2
: to consider (something) when one makes a calculation
The total distance, allowing for detours, is about 10 miles.
If you allow for inflation, he's actually earning less money now than he was 10 years ago.
3
: to make (something) possible
The design of the system allows for easy upgrades.

Examples of allow for in a Sentence

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JoyLab Mid-Rise Foldover Wide-Leg Pants The pants feature a foldover waistband that can be worn flipped up or rolled down, allowing for a high-rise fit. Rachel Trujillo, Travel + Leisure, 20 Sep. 2025 Its compact 26-inch-long frame is ideal for small kitchen corners, and its yearlong functionality allows for both indoor and outdoor use. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Sep. 2025 The Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business offers access to all Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club locations and a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership; the card allows for up to two complimentary guests, with each additional guest past the first two requiring a $27 fee. Ryley Amond, CNBC, 20 Sep. 2025 But insurers and government officials have said coverage will continue, and several states have allowed for vaccine access through pharmacies, the most common place to get shots. Tom Murphy, Fortune, 20 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for allow for

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Cite this Entry

“Allow for.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/allow%20for. Accessed 22 Sep. 2025.

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