Let Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
let
[let /let ]
Definitions
action
To allow or cause something to happen; to give permission for something to take place.
Synonyms
allow, authorize, enable, permit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| let |
This is an informal word, often used in everyday conversation to mean giving permission or allowing something to happen.
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| allow |
This word is more formal than 'let' and is used to indicate giving permission, often in rules or instructions.
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| permit |
This word is formal and often used in legal, official, or regulatory contexts to indicate giving permission.
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| enable |
This word generally means to make something possible or to provide the means for something to happen.
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| authorize |
This is a formal and legal term, often used in official or legal contexts to indicate giving official permission or power to someone.
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Examples of usage
- I need to let my dog out.
- Please let me know if you need any help.
- Let the games begin.
renting
To rent or lease something for temporary use.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| let |
This term is typically used in British English when a landlord allows a tenant to live in their property in exchange for rent. It is more formal and often used in legal or professional contexts.
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| rent |
This word is commonly used in American English for paying to use someone else's property, like houses, apartments, or cars, often without the formal connotations of 'lease' and can be used for shorter terms.
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| lease |
This term is used in a formal and legal context for renting property, often for a longer term than renting. It involves a contract between the lessor (owner) and lessee (tenant).
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| hire |
Commonly used when employing someone or renting an item for a short period. This word is frequently used for services, vehicles, or equipment.
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| sublet |
This term specifically refers to when someone who is already renting a property allows another person to rent part or all of the property from them. The original tenant becomes a landlord to the subtenant.
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Examples of usage
- I am going to let my apartment while I am on vacation.
- They decided to let their house to a family of four.
tennis
A shot that is allowed to pass without interference.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| let |
Used to permit or allow something to happen.
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| fault |
Used to describe a mistake or error, often with negative connotation.
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| redo |
Used when something needs to be done again, often because it was not done correctly the first time.
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| replay |
Used when an event or action is shown or performed again, typically in the context of sports, music, or videos.
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Examples of usage
- She hit a let on her serve.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- The concept of letting go can be important for mental health, aiding in stress relief and emotional healing.
- Research shows that allowing oneself to let things be can lead to greater life satisfaction and lower anxiety.
- In decision-making, 'letting' can refer to reducing burden by allowing others to take control, promoting collaboration.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters often use the word to express consent, highlighting themes of freedom and choice.
- Modern poetry frequently explores the implications of 'letting' go, symbolizing change and acceptance.
- Famous quotes, such as 'Let it be,' emphasize the power of acceptance and finding peace in difficult situations.
Pop Culture
- In films, the phrase 'let it go' from 'Frozen' became an anthem for self-acceptance and freedom.
- Popular songs often explore the theme of letting go of relationships, emphasizing emotional release.
- Social media trends sometimes include 'let' as part of hashtags encouraging positive action or support, like #LetLoveIn.
Language
- The word 'let' is used in numerous idiomatic expressions, such as 'let sleeping dogs lie' to suggest avoiding unnecessary conflict.
- In legal terms, it can also mean to lease property, reflecting its versatility in different contexts.
- Global variations of the word are common in many languages, showing its foundational role in communication about consent and permission.
Origin of 'let'
Main points about word origin
- This word comes from the Old English 'lettan', which means to cause to go, or to hinder.
- In medieval England, it evolved to have meanings related to permission and allowance.
- It has influenced other phrases in English, such as 'let go' and 'let's', which are common in everyday conversation.
The word 'let' originated from Old English 'lวฃtan' meaning 'to allow, to permit'. It has evolved over time to its current usage in English. The term has been in use for centuries in various contexts, adapting to different meanings and nuances.