Expressions With Let
The English language, with its rich tapestry of expressions, often uses simple words to convey complex ideas, and the verb “let” is a prime example. At its core, “let” means to allow or permit, but its usage extends into a multitude of expressions that touch on various aspects of life and human interaction. From relinquishing control to offering opportunities, “let” is a linguistic gateway to nuanced meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse expressions that feature “let,” each shedding light on a different shade of this accommodating verb.
Table of Contents
“Let Alone”
“Let alone” is used to emphasize the improbability of a situation by comparing it to an even less likely scenario.
Example: He struggles to boil water, let alone cook a three-course meal.
“Let Bygones Be Bygones”
This phrase means to forget past conflicts or disagreements and move on.
Example: They decided to let bygones be bygones and renew their friendship.
“Let Down”
To “let down” someone means to disappoint them by failing to meet their expectations.
Example: I didn’t want to let down my parents, so I studied hard for the exams.
“Let Go”
“Let go” can mean to release something from one’s grasp, or to stop thinking about or being affected by something.
Example: Sometimes, you just need to let go of the things you can’t control and focus on what you can.
“Let In On”
To “let someone in on” something means to share confidential information with them.
Example: I’ll let you in on a secret, but you have to promise not to tell anyone.
“Let Off Steam”
“Let off steam” is a way to describe releasing pent-up energy or emotions.
Example: After a tough week at work, he went for a long run to let off steam.
“Let On”
To “let on” means to reveal or disclose information, often inadvertently or reluctantly.
Example: She didn’t let on how much she knew about the surprise party.
“Let Out”
“Let out” can mean to allow someone or something to exit or to make a garment larger.
Example: Can you let out this dress? It’s a bit too tight around the waist.
“Let Slip”
To “let slip” means to accidentally reveal something, usually information that was meant to be kept secret.
Example: He let slip the details of the project before the official announcement.
“Let Someone Down Easy”
This expression means to reject or deliver bad news to someone in a gentle or kind manner.
Example: When she realized they weren’t right for each other, she tried to let him down easy.
“Let The Cat Out Of The Bag”
To “let the cat out of the bag” means to accidentally reveal a secret or a surprise.
Example: I was trying to keep the party a secret, but my little brother let the cat out of the bag.
“Let Your Hair Down”
“Let your hair down” is a metaphorical way to say relax and enjoy oneself without worrying about appearances or formalities.
Example: It’s been a tough week; let’s go out tonight and let our hair down.
“Let Up”
When something “lets up,” it decreases in intensity or stops altogether.
Example: We’ll leave for our trip as soon as the rain lets up.
“Let Your Guard Down”
To “let your guard down” means to become less vigilant or cautious.
Example: She was usually wary of strangers but she let her guard down and told him her story.
“Let The Chips Fall Where They May”
This expression suggests accepting the outcome of events, regardless of what happens, without trying to control them.
Example: I’ve done all I can for the presentation; now, I’ll just let the chips fall where they may.
“Let Someone Off The Hook”
To “let someone off the hook” is to release them from responsibility or obligation.
Example: I was supposed to work late, but my boss let me off the hook so I could attend my daughter’s recital.
“Let It Be”
“Let it be” advises leaving a situation alone instead of trying to change or influence it.
Example: When he noticed the argument getting too heated, he stepped back and decided to let it be.
“Let The Dust Settle”
Waiting to “let the dust settle” means to allow a situation to become calm or settled before taking action.
Example: After the merger, management decided to let the dust settle before making any major decisions.
“Let Nature Take Its Course”
To “let nature take its course” is to allow events to unfold naturally without interference.
Example: Rather than pursue aggressive treatment, he chose to let nature take its course.
“Let’s Call It A Day”
“Let’s call it a day” is a way of saying that one has done enough work for the day and it is time to stop.
Example: We’ve been at this for hours. Let’s call it a day and start fresh in the morning.
Final Thoughts
The word “let” might seem inconspicuous at first glance, but it is a powerhouse of expression in the English language. It is a versatile tool that can invite participation, suggest relaxation, or signal the release of control. When we examine the phrases that “let” animates, we uncover a fascinating array of human experiences and interactions encapsulated within them. Whether it’s letting bygones be bygones to mend a relationship, letting the cat out of the bag to reveal a secret, or letting your hair down to enjoy a moment of freedom, “let” proves indispensable.
Each expression featuring “let” provides a unique way to articulate a concept that might otherwise require many more words. It’s a hallmark of language efficiency and a testament to the economy of expression in English. “Let” is not just about permission; it’s about the nuanced ways in which we connect and communicate with each other, how we manage our emotions, and how we navigate the unpredictable nature of life.
