Pronunciation

/let/

Definitions

• Verb: (v) To allow or permit something to happen, especially by not preventing it; to give permission or authorization. For example: “She let him borrow her car.”

  • Also used to mean releasing or freeing something from a confined state: “Let the dogs out.”
  • In grammar, it’s also used as a modal verb to form the future tense in informal contexts: “Let’s go to the cinema tonight.”

• Noun: (n, informal) A period of time allowed for something, often referring to a rental agreement or a sports game. For example: “We have the flat on a six-month let.”

Phrases

• “Let alone” is used to emphasize that one thing is unlikely or impossible, especially when a less extreme case has already been mentioned. For example: “I can’t afford a new car, let alone a yacht.”
• “Let me/us be clear” is used to emphasize that what follows is very important and should be understood exactly. For example: “Let me be clear: this project must be finished by Friday.”
• “Let it be” suggests acceptance or allowing something to happen without interference. This phrase is famously used in the Beatles’ song title.

Example Sentences

• Verb: “The teacher let the students leave early today.”
• “Don’t let your fears stop you from pursuing your dreams.”
• “Noun: “We’ve taken a long let on the holiday cottage.”

Synonyms

• Allow
• Permit
• Authorize
• Consent
• Leave (as in ‘to leave someone to do something’)
• Rent (in the context of a noun meaning a period of time for which property is rented)

Note: The usage of “let” as a noun is quite specific and mostly found in British English in the context of property rentals. As a verb, its synonyms often depend on the specific context in which it’s being used.