ALLOW : LET

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]