Compare two ways to give someone permission.
The idea
Use allow + person + to + verb, but let + person + base verb without to.
| Verb | Pattern |
|---|---|
| allow | allow someone to do something |
| let | let someone do something |
Examples
- The museum allows visitors to take photos.
- Our coach allowed us to leave early.
- The school allows children to bring water.
- My neighbour lets me use the ladder.
- They let their dog sleep indoors.
- The host let us choose a table.
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Watch out
Do not say let me to go: say let me go.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct word. The notice allows guests ___ the garden. (to enter / enter)
Show answer or example answer
to enter
to enter: the notice uses the pattern after allow.
Choose the correct word. Please let us ___ your phone. (use / to use)
Show answer or example answer
use
use: after let us, the base verb has no to.
Choose the correct word. Our parents ___ us stay up late. (let / allow)
Show answer or example answer
let
let: the sentence has a person followed by a base verb.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct word. The notice allows guests ___ the garden. (to enter / enter)
Choose the correct word. Please let us ___ your phone. (use / to use)
Choose the correct word. Our parents ___ us stay up late. (let / allow)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Write one permission sentence with each verb.