Difference between allowed and aloud

This is part of the difference between series.

Recently, someone asked me to explain the difference between the words allowed and aloud. Here’s the difference between the two.

Allowed

allowed when we want to indicate that someone had permission to do something. For example:

  • My boss double booked herself, so she allowed me to present to Peterson Inc.
  • The sign said, “No swimming allowed”.
  • The missionaries allowed me to get baptized even though I wouldn’t stop swearing.

Aloud

Aloud, on the other hand, refers to communicating in a voice other than whispering.

  • He read the book aloud to his daughter.
  • The librarian wouldn’t let us speak aloud in the library.
  • I cried aloud after stubbing my toe.

Memory tip: If you often confuse these two words, just remember that both aloud contains the word loud.

Which words do you confuse? Let me know in the comments below.

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By Kim Siever

I am a copywriter and copyeditor. I blog on writing and social media tips mostly, but I sometimes throw in my thoughts about running a small business. Follow me on Twitter at @hotpepper.