Let and allow are the verbs that have similar meanings and usage. They are used in a sentence to ‘give permission’ or to make it possible for somebody ‘to have or do’ something.

The only significant difference they have is the difference in sentence structure when used. 

 

Using ‘let’ in a sentence

We use ‘let’ in a sentence as follows

Let (noun/pronoun) + do something

Example:

Manju doesn’t let her kids cross the street alone.

Will you let me pay for the meal?

 

NOTE:

When ‘let’ is used in a sentence where the tense of the verb is a past participle “be ‘ is used after the noun/pronoun. This suggests ‘to let something be done”

Example:

You let your money be stolen.

Don’t let your mind be changed.

 

Using ‘allow’ in a sentence

We use ‘allow’ in a sentence as follows

allow (noun/pronoun) + to do something

Example:

Manju doesn’t allow her kids to cross the street alone.

Will you allow me to pay for the meal?

 

NOTE:

When ‘allow’ is used in a sentence where the tense of the verb is a past participle “be ‘ is used after the noun/pronoun. This suggests ‘to allow something to be done”

Example:

You allow your money to be stolen.

Don’t allow your mind to be changed

 

Using ‘let’ and ‘allow’ in the passive voice

We often use ‘allow’ in a passive voice and not ‘let’.

Example:

You are not allowed to draw on the wall.

Neha is allowed to sing at the wedding.

 

This topic may seem confusing because ‘let’ and ‘allow’ both are used in the same context. Try to make a few sentences of your own about things around you or solve exercises for a better understanding of this topic.