Topic 16
ALLOW : LET
When these verbs are used in the sense of ‘permit’, allow is
followed by a noun or pronoun and an infinite with to, and let by
a noun or pronoun and an infinitive without to.
* The sentry allowed
us to pass.
* The sentry let
us pass.
[Sentry: a person employed to keep watch for some
anticipated event]
Allow (but not let) is frequently used in the passive.
* Smoking is not allowed.
* The children are not allowed to throw snowballs in the school play ground.
Allow is also used (less frequently) with other meanings and in other
patterns.
* Don’t forget to allow
ten percent for tips.
* His father allows
him $100 a year.
* You must allow
that Christmas is wonderful for children.
Let is used to form an indirect imperative
* Let him go if he wants to.
* Let me give you some advice.
Let is used with us (the two words being contracted to Let’s)
to make a suggestion, often with shall we added.
* Let’s start early.
* Let’s go to the cinema this evening, shall
we?
Let is also used meaning ‘rent’.
* House to let.
* She lets her house every summer for
ten guineas a week.
[Guinea: a former British gold coin worth
21 shillings]