can’t afford to do sth
fixed phr..fixed phr.. you use this when you must not do something because it would cause serious problems or bad results.
fixed phr.. to be unable to risk a particular action or outcome due to the high probability of negative consequences; functions as a modal-like expression of necessity or risk management.
I can't afford to lose my job right now.
The team is already behind schedule, so they can't afford to make any more mistakes.
With the election only weeks away, the candidate can't afford to alienate any more moderate voters with controversial statements.
usually followed by an infinitive verb describing a negative event or a risky action.
highlight that this is not about money; it is about the 'cost' of a mistake or a risk, which helps students move from the A2 financial meaning of 'afford' to this B1 figurative use.
I can't afford losing my keys.I can't afford to lose my keys.this phrase always takes the 'to' infinitive, never the '-ing' form.