Dictionary

Explore meaning, context, and usage with an online dictionary experience optimized for multilingual workflows.

Clear

Try these words

Meaning of afford

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

afford

Pronunciation:/əˈfɔːd//əˈfoɹd/

verb

Definitions

  1. To incur, stand, or bear without serious detriment, as an act which might under other circumstances be injurious;—with an auxiliary, as can, could, might, etc.; to be able or rich enough.

    Example: I think we can afford the extra hour it will take.  We can only afford to buy a small car at the moment.

  2. To offer, provide, or supply, as in selling, granting, expending, with profit, or without loss or too great injury.

    Example: A affords his goods cheaper than B.

  3. To give forth; to supply, yield, or produce as the natural result, fruit, or issue.

    Example: Grapes afford wine.  Olives afford oil.  The earth affords fruit.  The sea affords an abundant supply of fish.

  4. To give, grant, or confer, with a remoter reference to its being the natural result; to provide; to furnish.

    Example: A good life affords consolation in old age.