afford
UK[əˈfɔːd]US[əˈfɔːrd]
v
to have enough money to be able to pay for something
v
to be able to do something without having to worry about the problems it may cause
Etymology
The word 'afford' originates from the Old English verb 'geforðian', meaning "to carry out, accomplish, or further." This term was formed from the intensive prefix 'ge-' and 'forðian', derived from 'forð' (forth). The sense evolved in Middle English to signify "to manage, be able to do," influenced by the Anglo-French 'aforer' (to condition, arrange). By the 16th century, the meaning specialized to its current primary sense concerning financial capability, reflecting the idea of having the means to "carry forth" or "bring about" a purchase or action.
Analysis
The word is a simplex form. Its core is the Old English prefix 'ge-' (completive or intensive) combined with 'forðian' (to further, to accomplish). The modern form results from phonetic erosion and semantic narrowing.
Examples
We couldn't afford a new car on our current budget.
Can you afford to take a week off work right now?
The valley affords spectacular views of the mountains at sunrise.