enable

To make it possible for someone or something to do something.

• This tool enables faster communication.
• The ramp enabled her to enter the building.
• Will this software enable users to share files?

How to use it: enable someone/something to do something (The grant enabled us to buy new equipment.)

Similar words: allow, permit, facilitate

Opposites: prevent

Common phrases: enable someone to, enable access, enable communication

To turn on a feature or function so that it can be used.

• Please enable notifications.
• I enabled the security feature yesterday.
• How do I enable automatic updates?

Similar words: activate, turn on

Opposites: disable

Common phrases: enable notifications, enable bluetooth, enable a feature

To let someone continue harmful behavior by helping them or making excuses for them.

• Her excuses enable his bad behavior.
• They enabled his addiction by giving him money.
• Are we helping her or enabling her drinking?

How to use it: enable someone to do something (Paying his debts enabled him to keep gambling.)

Similar words: encourage, support

Common phrases: enable an addict, enable bad behavior, enable someone's addiction