noun
allowance
An adjustment made to account for particular circumstances.
The schedule makes allowance for possible delays.
Etymology
Allow can mean to grant or accept something, and -ance names the act or result. An allowance for circumstances grants those circumstances weight in an adjustment or judgment.
More examples
- They gave an allowance for normal wear.
- Make some allowance for his lack of experience.
- The calculation includes an allowance for waste.
Forms
allowance · allowances
Similar words
- adjustment
- A change to account for circumstances.
- concession
- Something granted in recognition of a need or difficulty.