Manhattan Prep Instructor
Joined: 22 Sep 2010
Posts: 167
Schools:MBA, Thunderbird School of Global Management / BA, Wesleyan University
Re: idioms - allows...for Vs allows..to
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21 Nov 2010, 19:51
Good times with idioms!
"Allows for" and "allow to" are each correct in different contexts.
"Allow...to" means "permit". For example:
"You are allowed TO eat your dessert after you finish your vegetables." --> Correct. Here, you are permitted to eat dessert at that point.
"All students are allowed TO post questions on the forum." --> Again, this is correct.
"Will you allow me TO go to the party?" --> Correct. I'm asking permission to go to the party.
Notice how all of these examples with "allow...to" are followed by clauses that contain verbs.
In contrast, "allows for" must be followed by a noun, as this form of the idiom means "permits the existence of." For example:
"Implementing the instant replay allowed FOR more accurate calls." --> Correct. The instant reply led to the existence of the noun phrase "more accurate calls."
"Building a larger stadium allowed FOR higher attendance." --> Again, correct. "Higher attendance" is a noun that was made possible by the larger stadium.
Given all this: In your example below, nageshiv, which one would you choose?
Brett