allow, permit and let
1 allow and permit
These words have similar meanings and uses. Permit is more formal. Both
words can be followed by object + infinitive.
We do not allow/permit people to smoke in the kitchen.
When there is no personal object, an -ing form is used.
We do not allow/permit smoking in the kitchen.
Passive structures are common; personal subjects and gerund (-ing form)
subjects are both possible.
People are not allowed/permitted to smoke in the kitchen.
Smoking is not allowed/permitted in the kitchen.
The passive structure with it is only possible with permit.
It is not permitted to smoke in the kitchen. (BUT NOT It is 1t6E MltJI:IIefi
t(J Sfll6ke •.• )
Allow, but not permit, can be used with adverb particles.
She wouldn't allow me in. Mary isn't allowed out at night.
2 let
Let is the least formal of these three words, and is followed by object +
infinitive without to. Compare:
Please allow me to buy you a drink. (polite and formal)
Let me buy you a drink. (friendly and informal)
Let is not usually used in the passive.
I wasn't allowed to pay for the drinks. (NOT {ttJtl9It't let .. . )
Let can be used with adverb particles; passives are possible in this case.
She wouldn't let me in. I've been let down