allow for

phrasal verb

allowed for; allowing for; allows for

: 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.

: 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.

: to make (something) possible

The design of the system allows for easy upgrades.

Examples of allow for in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The mixed-use zone allows for up to 73 dwelling units per acre. —

Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2024 While spacesuits on Mars will be different from those on the Moon, this lunar landing will allow for a better understanding of long-term life suited up. —

Sara Novak, Discover Magazine, 5 June 2024 Accommodations allow for a dog up to 85 pounds and there is a $70 per night pet fee (plus tax) which is charged upon booking. —

Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 4 June 2024 This allows for players not listed on the initial ballot pool to garner a vote. —

Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for allow for

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'allow for.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.