allowable

adjective

al·​low·​able ə-ˈlau̇-ə-bəl How to pronounce allowable (audio)
Synonyms of allowablenext
: permissible
allowable income tax deductions
allowably adverb

Examples of allowable in a Sentence

international travel without a passport isn't allowable
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One is Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status, which the IRS can grant when your monthly income barely covers your allowable expenses, much less your outstanding federal tax bill. Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026 The agency in the past has been accused of lobbying against the county’s interests, particularly on state rules governing the allowable uses of tourist tax funds. Stephen Hudak, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Feb. 2026 Newport Beach resident Steven Vickers filed the referendum petition challenging the General Plan amendment that increased the allowable development limit. Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 27 Jan. 2026 With allowable errors in the helicopter’s altimeters and other equipment, as well as Army rules expecting aviators to hold their altitude within 100 feet, the aircraft can end up being much closer. Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for allowable

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of allowable was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Allowable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/allowable. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

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