MSN: The growing gap between needed repairs and what homeowners can afford 1. (preceded by: can, could, etc) to be able to do or spare something, esp without incurring financial difficulties or without risk of undesirable consequences: we can afford to buy a small house; I can afford to give you one of my chess sets; we can't afford to miss this play. If you say that you cannot afford to do something or allow it to happen, you mean that you must not do it or must prevent it from happening because it would be harmful or embarrassing to you.

Understanding the Context

afford /əˈfɔːd/ vb preceded by can, could, etc: to be able to do or spare something, esp without incurring financial difficulties or without risk of undesirable consequences To have enough or the means for; bear the cost of without serious inconvenience. I'm not able to afford a car; can you afford the time? Afford generally means having enough money or resources to pay for something or the ability to do something without experiencing negative consequences. It can refer to buying goods or services, taking time or exerting effort, or accommodating a certain situation or circumstance.

Key Insights

A patent legally forbids anyone from producing, selling, offering to sell, or using the invention without your specific authorization. However, as a patent lawyer in Melbourne, Florida from the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood can attest, a patent does not always stop someone from infringing on a patent. Columbus Dispatch: Being on lookout for water leaks can help prevent costly repairs