afford - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
afford Word Meanings
- to have enough money to pay for something
- to provide or offer something
- to be able to do something without risk
afford Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
afford Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈfɔːd/
US
/əˈfɔrd/
afford Word Etymology
composed of 'af-' (from) + 'ford' (to move forward); originated from Old English 'foran' meaning 'to go forward'. Imagine standing at the edge of a river, considering whether you can buy a boat to cross; you can 'afford' the journey if your wallet can support moving forward into the adventure.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for my wallet, move my hand to the counter, and push the money across. The price makes my mind shift, and I hold my breath as I decide whether I can afford it. I adjust my plan, set aside what I can spend, and feel a steady sense of control. Finally I realize I can afford this now, or I can keep saving a little longer.
Real Context
Afford is a versatile verb used when you can pay for something, when something can be provided or offered, and when you are able to do something without taking on unacceptable risk. In financial terms, you say you cannot 'afford' a luxury if the price would stretch your budget beyond a safe limit. Grammatically, you commonly follow afford with an infinitive like 'to buy' or 'to do something' or with 'afford someone something' as a direct object. The sense of cost here is practical, not moral: it measures feasibility and security rather than virtue. Etymology links af- (from) and ford (to move forward), evoking moving forward within your means.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: afford relates to cost and capability, not morality. Use afford + to + verb or afford someone something. Don’t say 'afforded' for present ability. In negative form, 'cannot/can't afford' is standard. In questions, 'Do you think you can afford...' is common. 'Affordability' is the noun form. Watch collocations like 'afford to buy', 'afford the opportunity'.
Common Misconceptions
- Afford is only about money, not ability or opportunity
- Afford means 'provide' or 'allow' in all contexts
- You can say 'afforded' in present simple
- Afford always requires a full purchase, never a service or opportunity
- Afford cannot be used with negative forms
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the fixed phrase 'afford to + verb' (I can afford to travel).
- Remember 'afford' + direct object (afford someone something).
- Use 'cannot/can't afford' for financial limitations.
- Differentiate from 'provide' and 'allow' in contexts of capability.
- Practice with everyday items to build intuition.
- Pair with 'affordability' when discussing costs in general.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'afford' mean?
A.Cry
B.Buy
C.Fly
D.Try
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'afford' used correctly?
A.I cannot afford to cook dinner tonight.
B.I cannot afford to sleep all day.
C.I cannot afford to go on vacation this year.
D.I cannot afford to read a book.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'afford'?
A.Purchase
B.Sell
C.Ignore
D.Forget
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'afford'?
A.Affluent
B.Splurge
C.Broke
D.Spendthrift
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation might someone say 'I cannot afford to go out to eat'?
A.When they have a lot of money
B.When they do not have enough money
C.When they are hungry
D.When they have a full pantry at home
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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