Synonyms of afford

afford

verb

ə-ˈfȯrd 

as in to go

to have enough money for

we can't afford a new car this year

Synonyms & Similar Words

• go
• get
• swing
• purchase
• obtain
• take
• procure
• offer
• acquire
• pay (for)
• finance
• expend
• cover
• secure
• subsidize
• underwrite
• outlay
• bid
• spring (for)
• pick up
• pony up
• endow
• bankroll

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb afford contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of afford are bestow, confer, donate, give, and present. While all these words mean "to convey to another as a possession," afford implies a giving or bestowing usually as a natural or legitimate consequence of the character of the giver.

the trees afford shade

a development that affords us some hope

When is bestow a more appropriate choice than afford?

The words bestow and afford can be used in similar contexts, but bestow implies the conveying of something as a gift and may suggest condescension on the part of the giver.

bestow unwanted advice

When would confer be a good substitute for afford?

In some situations, the words confer and afford are roughly equivalent. However, confer implies a gracious giving (as of a favor or honor).

confer an honorary degree

When can donate be used instead of afford?

The words donate and afford are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, donate is likely to imply a publicized giving (as to charity).

donate a piano to the orphanage

When is it sensible to use give instead of afford?

The meanings of give and afford largely overlap; however, give, the general term, is applicable to any passing over of anything by any means.

give alms

gave her a ride on a pony

give my love to your mother

When might present be a better fit than afford?

Although the words present and afford have much in common, present carries a note of formality and ceremony.

present an award

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of afford

Huddlestun spoke of the need for additional affordable housing – not just for what people of lower incomes can afford, but across the spectrum of price points. —Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026

Nor is there any such sense this time around with Erik Spoelstra, who for yet another season pushed all the buttons afforded, when arguably not enough buttons were afforded. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026

Make the most of the wait People may feel disappointed about having to wait before getting a FHA loan, but Steffy said focus on the goal of finally being able to afford a home and use the time productively. —Medora Lee, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

While Scott played the bulk of the defensive snaps in the secondary last season, the Panthers could still afford to upgrade the post safety position for the long haul. —Charlotte Observer, 15 Apr. 2026