allowance - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
allowance Word Meanings
- a sum of money given regularly to a person
- permission to do something
- a reduction in the amount needed for tax purposes
allowance Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
allowance Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈlaʊ.əns/
US
/əˈlaʊ.əns/
allowance Word Etymology
allowance = allow (to permit) + ance (noun suffix). Origin: Latin 'admittere' (to admit) → Old French 'aloier' → English 'allow'. Imagine a child receiving a set amount of money from parents for weekly expenses, which represents their allowance, a granted permission to spend.
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 and set a small envelope on the desk. I count the coins, move them into neat piles, and feel the weight settle in my hands. I adjust my plan as I decide what to save or spend this week. This allowance becomes a soft hinge for choice, letting me learn what it means to have some control.
Real Context
Allowance has several senses: a sum of money given regularly, permission to do something, and a tax-related deduction. The core idea is a portion that is granted or allocated. In everyday life, a child might receive a weekly or monthly allowance, a fixed amount for chores or personal spending; in work or travel contexts, an allowance can be a small budget for expenses; in taxation, an allowance is a deduction or amount of income that is not taxed. Learners often confuse money with permission and mistake a subsidy for an entitlement. Common collocations include monthly allowance, travel allowance, and tax allowance. Paying attention to context helps identify the right sense and the correct preposition.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember it's a noun with several senses
- - Distinguish money vs permission usage
- - 'tax allowance' is a deduction, not a freebie
- - Use correct prepositions: allowance for, allowance to, or allowance of
- - Pair with adjectives: monthly allowance, travel allowance
Common Misconceptions
- Allowance always means money; it can also mean permission or tax deduction.
- Tax allowance equals a tax credit or a gift—not a deduction.
- You always use 'to' after allowance when giving permission (incorrect in many cases).
- It's wrong to think 'monthly allowance' must be a weekly payment.
- Confusing 'allowance for' with 'allowance of' or using the wrong preposition
Thinking Differences
English often separates money, permission, and tax concepts into distinct senses; learners must track context and collocations to choose the right sense and preposition.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three senses separately: money, permission, and tax terms.
- memorize collocations by context (monthly/daily, travel, tax).
- Practice prepositions with each sense (for, to, of, with).
- Notice tax-related phrases (tax allowance, allowance for).
- Use synonyms to check understanding (pocket money, permit, deduction).
- Read real-world examples to reinforce sense shifts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'allowance'?
A.Permission
B.Denial
C.Delay
D.Hesitation
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence where 'allowance' is used correctly:
A.She received a bonus for exceeding her monthly sales target.
B.He refused to give allowance to his children for no reason.
C.The teacher made an allowance for students who missed the deadline.
D.I need to allowance with my boss before taking time off.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'allowance'?
A.Privilege
B.Restriction
C.Prohibition
D.Inhibition
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'allowance'?
A.Permission
B.Delay
C.Prohibition
D.Implement
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you ask for an allowance?
A.Getting a raise at work for good performance
B.Working overtime at a job
C.Getting extra money from parents for completing chores
D.Investing in the stock market
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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