afford

word

/əˈfɔɹd/
uh-FORD
/ɐfˈɔːd/
uh-FAWD

Definition

To have enough money, time, or other resources for something without serious difficulty. It is most often used for having enough money to buy or do something.

Usage & Nuances

Usually followed by a noun or infinitive: 'afford a car', 'afford to buy a car'. Very common in negatives and questions: 'can't afford', 'can we afford to...?'. It can also mean having enough time or being able to risk something: 'I can't afford to be late' means the consequence would be serious.

Example Sentences

We can't afford a new car right now.

basic

Can you afford this phone?

basic

I can't afford to miss another day of work.

basic

With rent going up again, we're barely affording groceries.

natural

We can't afford to wait much longer.

natural

Honestly, I can't afford another mistake on this project.

natural