allowable

adjective

al·​low·​able ə-ˈlau̇-ə-bəl 

: permissible

allowable income tax deductions

allowably

ə-ˈlau̇-ə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms of allowable

• acceptable
• permissible
• permitted
• admissible
• legal

Examples of allowable in a Sentence

international travel without a passport isn't allowable

Recent Examples on the Web

Rosen said the agreement means Boelter can receive the longest possible prison term allowable under the law. — Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 11 June 2026

If the variance is not approved, the project would stay within the allowable floor area ratio (FAR) with 12 apartments but no market and less parking. — Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 June 2026

If enough assets exist, both the outstanding principal and any allowable accrued interest may be paid before remaining assets are distributed to heirs. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 July 2026

Ada County commissioners are considering raising property taxes to balance the budget, with the median Meridian homeowner potentially seeing a $30 increase under the maximum allowable hike. — Idaho Statesman, 18 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English alowable, allowable "proper, admissible," borrowed from Anglo-French alouable, from aluer, aloer "to accept as legally valid, permit" + -able -able — more at allow

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for allowable

• unallowable