Allow, Let and Permit

Using allow, let, and permit can be tricky for English learners because they have similar meanings but different grammar rules. Here are common mistakes and tips for using them correctly.

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1. Using Incorrect Structures #

Allow and permit are followed by object + to + base verb, while let is followed by object + base verb (without to).

Correct: “They allowed us to enter.” / “She permitted him to leave.” / “He let her go.”

Incorrect: “They allowed us enter.” / “She permitted him leave.” / “He let her to go.”

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2. Using Passive Voice Incorrectly #

When used in the passive voice, allow and permit require the infinitive (to + base verb), while let does not work well in passive constructions.

Correct: “We were allowed to enter.” / “Smoking is not permitted here.”

Incorrect: “We were let to enter.” (Instead, use allowed: “We were allowed to enter.”)

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3. Confusing Formality Levels #

Allow and permit are more formal, while let is casual. Mixing these can make your tone sound awkward.

Correct: “The school allows students to use the library.” (Formal context)

Correct: “My parents let me stay up late.” (Casual context)

Incorrect: “The school lets students use the library.” (Sounds too casual in formal writing)

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4. Forgetting “Not” in Negative Forms #

Learners often forget to include not to make sentences negative or place it incorrectly.

Correct: “They did not allow us to park here.” / “Smoking is not permitted.”

Incorrect: “They did not allowed us to park here.” / “Smoking is not allow.”

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5. Using “Allow/Permit” Without Specifying What is Allowed #

Both allow and permit often require clarity about what is being allowed, unlike let, which can be less specific.

Correct: “They allowed us to use their equipment.”

Incorrect: “They allowed us.” (Unclear what was allowed)

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Guidelines for Correct Usage #

Verb	Structure Examples	Formality
Allow	allow + object + to + verb (e.g., “They allowed him to leave.”)	Neutral/Formal
Permit	permit + object + to + verb (e.g., “They permitted us to enter.”)	Formal
Let	let + object + base verb (e.g., “She let him drive.”)	Informal

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Example Sentences #

1. Allow:
   • “The teacher allowed the students to leave early.”
   • “Pets are not allowed in this hotel.”
2. Permit:
   • “The company permits employees to work remotely.”
   • “Loud music is not permitted after 10 PM.”
3. Let:
   • “He let me borrow his car.”
   • “Please let her explain.”

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