allowable

[ uh-lou-uh-buhl ]

adjective

1. that may be allowed; legitimate; permissible:

   an allowable tax deduction.

noun

1. something, as an action or amount, that is allowed.
2. Ecology. allowable cut.

allowable

/ əˈlaʊəbəl /

adjective

1. permissible; admissible

Derived Forms

• alˈlowably, adverb

Other Words From

• al·lowa·ble·ness noun
• al·lowa·bly adverb
• preal·lowa·ble adjective
• preal·lowa·bly adverb
• unal·lowa·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of allowable¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English word from Middle French word alouable. See allow, -able

Example Sentences

The company can continue selling tuning devices and software that California regulators have deemed do not increase pollution above allowable levels.

From Los Angeles Times

Laws passed in conservative states have restricted access to abortion, sometimes by making it allowable only if the woman’s life is at risk.

From Los Angeles Times

Without a new deal in place, Jefferson was absent on Monday when the Vikings held their first of 10 allowable organized team activities, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

From Seattle Times

Previously, deadly force had been allowable when “reasonable.”

From Los Angeles Times

Tampa Bay used its last allowable mound visit when catcher Ben Rortvedt went out to speak with Adam after the walk to Refsnyder.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• acceptable
• admissible
• legal
• proper