VocabDictionary

allowable

/əˈlaʊ.ə.bəl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

That which is permitted, acceptable, or not forbidden by rules, laws, or guidelines.

Example Sentences:
  • The tax accountant calculated which moving expenses were allowable deductions.
  • There is a maximum allowable weight limit for checked airline baggage.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “allowable”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'allow' (via Old French 'allouer', from Latin 'allocare', meaning to place, allot, or assign), combined with the suffix '-able', meaning 'capable of being' or 'fit for'. Historically evolved to mean what is legally or officially permitted.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'allow' + 'able' — something that you are ABLE to ALLOW.

Frequently Asked Questions About “allowable

1. What is the meaning of “allowable” in English?

In English, allowable (adjective) is defined as: “That which is permitted, acceptable, or not forbidden by rules, laws, or guidelines.”.

2. How do you use “allowable” in a sentence?

The tax accountant calculated which moving expenses were allowable deductions.

3. What are English synonyms of “allowable”?

Common synonyms include:permissible,acceptable,lawful,permitted

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “allowable”?

Derived from the verb 'allow' (via Old French 'allouer', from Latin 'allocare', meaning to place, allot, or assign), combined with the suffix '-able', meaning 'capable of being' or 'fit for'. Historically evolved to mean what is legally or officially permitted.