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

Recent Examples on the Web

The pillows have a 250 thread-count cotton shell that is thin and breathable, allowing for airflow around the head. —Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 27 Dec. 2025

To rejuvenate an older plant, cut 50 to 75% of the oldest, thickest canes back to the ground to allow for new shoots to develop. —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Dec. 2025

But this time, the senator’s bill only allowed for 100 private investor home purchases. —Center Square, The Washington Examiner, 27 Dec. 2025

Many airlines offer free waivers for those affected by severe weather conditions, allowing for free rebooking or cancellations without fees. —Connor Greene, Time, 27 Dec. 2025

Rhymes for allow for

• albacore
• alongshore
• antiwar
• anymore
• blastopore
• carnivore
• commodore
• dinosaur
• evermore
• furthermore
• guarantor
• herbivore