# allow of

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/allow-of
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to make something possible or to leave room for a specific interpretation.

For teachers: to permit or admit of a particular possibility or interpretation; typically used in formal or literary contexts with abstract subjects.

## Examples

- The rules do not allow of any exceptions.
- The evidence is quite clear and does not allow of any other conclusion.
- The gravity of the situation is such that it allows of no delay in our response to the humanitarian crisis.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The boss doesn't allow of me to leave early." but "The boss doesn't allow me to leave early." — use 'allow + object' for permission; 'allow of' is for abstract possibilities and does not take a person as an object.

## Usage notes

- highly formal and almost always used in the negative (e.g., 'allows of no...').
- Teaching tip: contrast with the common 'allow' (to permit); 'allow of' is more about logical possibility or abstract space than giving permission to a person.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.