allow for

allow something for something 

1. to allocate a share or a suitable amount of something, such as time, money, space, etc., for some activity or goal. I allowed only an hour for lunch. They did not allow enough money for their expenditures this month.

2. to give consideration to circumstances or contingencies. We allowed room for expansion when we designed the building. Allowing for his youth and lack of experience, I forgave him completely for his oversight.

See also: allow

allow for someone or something 

1. to plan on having enough of something (such as food, space, etc.) for someone. Mary is bringing Bill on the picnic, so be sure to allow for him when buying the food. Allow for an extra person when setting the table tonight.

2. to plan on the possibility of something. Allow for a few rainy days on your vacation. Be sure to allow for future growth when you plant the rosebushes.

See also: allow

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allow for something

to consider particular facts that relate to something If you own stock, you must allow for the possibility that it will lose value.

Related vocabulary: make allowances for somebody/something

See also: allow