Sublet - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

renting out a property

To sublet means to rent out a property that you are currently renting from someone else. This typically involves the original tenant finding a new tenant to take over the lease for a period of time. Subletting is usually done with the permission of the landlord.

Synonyms

lease out, rent out, sublease.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sublet	Use 'sublet' when you temporarily rent out a space that you have already leased from someone else. It is usually used in a residential context. I decided to sublet my apartment for the summer while I travel. She is looking for someone to sublet her room for the next three months.
rent out	Appropriate when you allow someone to use your property or equipment in return for payment, mainly used in both residential and commercial contexts and often in everyday language. I am planning to rent out my house while I am abroad. They decided to rent out their equipment to freelancers.
lease out	This phrase is used when you give someone else the right to use a property or equipment for a specified period, often used in legal and business fillings. The company plans to lease out part of its office space to a startup. They have decided to lease out their commercial property to another business.
sublease	Similar to 'sublet,' this term is typically used in more formal or legal contexts when you rent out a property that you are currently leasing from someone else. He entered into a sublease agreement for the extra office space. We need to get approval from the landlord before we can sublease the apartment.

Examples of usage

I had to sublet my apartment for the summer while I was traveling.
She sublet her room to a friend after she moved out.
The landlord allowed them to sublet the house while they were away on a long trip.

Interesting Facts

Legal Aspects

Many rental agreements require landlords' permission to sublet a property, ensuring that the terms are adhered to.
Improperly subletting can lead to legal disputes, including eviction, if the primary lease allows for it.

Cultural Practices

Subletting is popular in urban areas where housing demand exceeds supply; it allows tenants to share living costs.
In some cultures, informal subletting—where verbal agreements are made—occurs frequently, particularly among friends or family.

Economic Impact

In times of economic hardship, subletting helps tenants manage their costs by allowing them to share rent with others.
The practice contributes to the sharing economy, where resources like living space are used more efficiently.

Real Estate Trends

With the rise of platforms like Airbnb, subletting has evolved into a significant trend, allowing people to rent spaces short-term.
Subletting can help landlords fill vacancies quickly, as tenants can cover their costs while searching for longer-term solutions.

Origin of 'sublet'

Main points about word origin

The term 'sublet' comes from the prefix 'sub-' meaning under, and 'let' which means to lease or rent.
'Let' itself originates from the Old English word 'lætan,' which means to allow or permit, highlighting the act of giving permission.

The term 'sublet' originated in the early 18th century and comes from the combination of 'sub-' meaning 'under' or 'below' and 'let' meaning 'to rent'. It was initially used in the context of renting a property from a tenant who was already renting it from someone else.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,195, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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27192 polka
27193 disinherited
27194 hippopotamus
27195 sublet
27196 reconditioned
27197 intellectualism
27198 cussed
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Sublet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations