afford

To have enough money or other resources to buy or do something.

• I cannot afford a new phone.
• They could afford to travel last year.
• Can you afford the monthly payments?

How to use it: can afford something (We can afford a small car.); afford to do something (She cannot afford to rent her own apartment.)

Common phrases: afford a car, afford the cost, cannot afford something

To be able to do or allow something without causing serious problems or harm.

• We cannot afford another mistake.
• You can afford to rest for an hour.
• Can the team afford to lose its best player?

How to use it: can/cannot afford to do something (We cannot afford to lose another match.); can/cannot afford something (The project cannot afford any further delays.)

Similar words: risk, bear

Common phrases: cannot afford mistakes, afford a delay, afford to wait

To give someone something, such as help, protection, or an opportunity.

• The law affords her protection.
• The course afforded us a chance to practice.
• This arrangement affords greater privacy to guests.

How to use it: afford someone something (The law affords workers basic protection.); afford something to someone (Equal rights must be afforded to every citizen.)

Similar words: give, provide, grant

Common phrases: afford someone protection, afford an opportunity, afford a view, afford some comfort