no se puede permitir

can't be allowed; can't afford

→ no

phrase Rare #41,364

can't be allowed; can't afford Depending on context, it can also mean “can't allow oneself.” With a thing such as an expense or a lawyer, it often means “can't afford.”

SP: No se puede permitir ese gasto.

EN: We can't afford that expense.

Uno no se puede permitir ser egoísta.

One cannot afford to be selfish.

— Ángeles caídos (1995)

No se puede permitir que nadie venga aquí.

No one can be allowed to come here.

— Amigos Intocables (2011)

Se debe aprender del pasado, y no se puede permitir que se repita.

We must learn from the past and not allow it to repeat itself.

— Ha vuelto (2015)

Incluso en Chicago, ¡este tipo de corrupción no se puede permitir!

Even in Chicago, this kind of corruption cannot be allowed!

— Chicago (2002)

No se puede permitir un error, eso terminaría en un accidente.

A mistake cannot be allowed; that would end in an accident.

— Senna (2010)

Tom no se puede permitir ni siquiera comprar un coche de segunda mano.

Tom can't even afford to buy a used car.

Si no se puede permitir un abogado, se le proporcionará uno.

If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be provided.