afford · v
cannot afford
C2 If you cannot afford to do something, it is impossible for you to do it without causing problems.
Dictionary examples:
We can't afford to take that risk. (38.9)
can afford
B1 to be able to buy or do something because you have enough money or time
Dictionary examples:
I can't afford a pet dinosaur, but I can afford to dream big! (0.0)
I can afford to buy a robot butler, but I can't afford the electricity bill. (0.0)
I can afford to buy a submarine, but I can't afford swimming lessons. (0.0)
I'd love to go away for a few days but I can't afford the time. (35.6)
I can't afford to buy a house. (37.7)
I don't know how he can afford a new car on his salary. (40.0)
Few people are able to afford cars like that. (41.5)