Use of “Let” in English. Pronunciation and Meanings of “Let” in British English. 100 Imperative Sentences with “Let” in British English

Use of “Let” in English

The word “let” is one of the most versatile and frequently used verbs in British English. It appears in everyday conversations, academic contexts, and even in formal writing. Interestingly, its meanings and uses vary depending on the context in which it is applied. In this article, we will explore the different uses of “let” in British English, supported with examples, explanations, and common phrases.

Pronunciation and Meanings of “Let” in British English

Pronunciation of “Let”

In Received Pronunciation (RP), which is the standard accent of British English, the word “let” is pronounced as:

/let/

• The initial sound /l/ is a voiced alveolar lateral approximant (as in light).
• The middle sound /e/ is a short front vowel (as in bed).
• The final sound /t/ is a voiceless alveolar plosive (as in top).

Thus, “let” is pronounced with a short, clear vowel and a sharp ending consonant.

Forms of “Let”

Unlike regular verbs in English, “let” is irregular but very simple because its base form, past tense, and past participle are all the same.

 Notes –

1. No -ed ending: Unlike regular verbs (worked, played), “let” does not change in its past or past participle forms.
2. Doubling of “t” in -ing form: When adding -ing, the final consonant t is doubled → letting.
3. Simplicity: This makes “let” one of the easiest irregular verbs to remember, but learners must avoid the mistake of writing letted (incorrect).

• IPA (British English): /let/
• Forms: let – lets – let – let – letting

What Does “Let” Mean?

The word “let” is a very versatile verb in English, especially in British English. Its meanings change depending on the context. For example:

1. Let as a Verb Meaning “Allow”

The most common use of “let” in British English is to mean to allow someone to do something. It is widely used in spoken and written communication.

Examples:

• My parents never let me stay out late.
• Please let him finish his speech.
• She let her children play in the garden.

In these examples, “let” functions as a causative verb, followed directly by the object (someone) and then the base form of the verb (do, play, finish).

2. Let in Imperatives

“Let” is often used in imperative sentences to give instructions, make suggestions, or give permission.

Examples:

• Let us begin the meeting.
• Let him try before you judge.
• Let’s go to the park this afternoon.

Here, “let’s” (short for let us) is one of the most common forms, used to make suggestions in a polite and inclusive way.

3. Let in Phrasal Expressions

Several phrasal verbs and expressions in British English include “let”, each with unique meanings.

• Let down – to disappoint.
  Example: He promised to help, but he let me down.
• Let off – to excuse someone from something.
  Example: The teacher let the children off homework today.
• Let out – to release or make something larger.
  Example: They let out the prisoners after ten years.
• Let in – to allow someone or something to enter.
  Example: Please let the dog in.

These phrasal expressions are highly common in everyday British English.

4. Let in Formal and Legal Usage

In formal and legal contexts, “let” can mean to rent out property. This use is particularly common in British English.

Examples:

• The flat was let to a family of four.
• They decided to let their cottage during the summer.

Estate agents in the United Kingdom frequently use “to let” signs when a property is available for rent.

5. Let in Passive Constructions

Although “let” is not commonly used in passive forms, it occasionally appears in formal or old-fashioned contexts.

Examples:

• The hall was let for community events.
• Rooms were let to students at reasonable rates.

This usage is particularly noticeable in property, contract, or historical descriptions.

6. Let in Fixed Phrases and Idioms

British English is full of idiomatic expressions with “let”, which enrich spoken and written communication.

• Let sleeping dogs lie – avoid interfering in a situation that might cause trouble.
• Let the cat out of the bag – reveal a secret.
• Live and let live – tolerate the views and actions of others.
• Don’t let it get you down – do not allow a situation to discourage you.

These idioms are widely recognised across Britain and are useful for learners to sound more natural.

7. Grammatical Points to Remember

• After “let”, the verb always takes the base form (without “to”).
  Correct: She let me borrow her book.
  Incorrect: She let me to borrow her book.
• In the negative, “don’t let” or “didn’t let” is used.
  Example: He didn’t let me enter the room.
• In questions, the structure changes.
  Example: Will you let me know when you arrive?

All Meanings of “Let” in British English

The verb “let” is short but remarkably versatile. It carries multiple meanings depending on the situation, ranging from everyday speech to legal, formal, and idiomatic contexts. Below is a detailed explanation of all the core meanings of “let”, with examples for clarity.

1. To Allow or Permit

This is the most common and widely recognised meaning of “let”. It expresses permission.

Examples:

• Please let me finish my explanation.
• They let their children play in the garden.
• My parents never let me go out late.

2. To Suggest or Propose (Imperatives with “Let”)

Used in commands, instructions, or polite suggestions, often with “let’s” (let us).

Examples:

• Let’s go for a walk.
• Let us pray.
• Let him try again before you decide.

3. To Rent or Lease Out (Formal/Legal British English)

In British usage, “let” often refers to renting property, land, or accommodation.

Examples:

• The flat is to let.
• They let their house during the summer holidays.
• The cottage was let to a family from London.

4. To Release, Emit, or Make Something Go

“Let” can mean allowing something (like air, sound, or liquid) to escape.

Examples:

• She let out a loud sigh.
• He let the water run from the tap.
• The balloon burst and let out the air.

5. To Cause or Allow Something to Happen

Here, “let” expresses allowing or causing a situation to occur.

Examples:

• Don’t let anger control you.
• He let the opportunity slip away.
• She let herself get distracted.

6. To Allow Entry or Exit

“Let” also conveys allowing someone or something to enter or leave.

Examples:

• Please let the cat in.
• The guard let us out after the event.
• He let them through the gate.

7. To Fail or Disappoint (Phrasal Verb: Let Down)

When used in phrasal forms, “let” can imply disappointment.

Examples:

• He promised to help but let me down.
• Don’t let your team down in the final match.

8. To Excuse or Spare (Phrasal Verb: Let Off)

Another extended meaning is to free someone from duty, blame, or punishment.

Examples:

• The teacher let the students off homework.
• The police officer let him off with a warning.

9. To Make Available (Business/Legal Context)

In commercial English, “let” means offering something for use.

Examples:

• The hall is let for weddings and conferences.
• The land was let for farming purposes.

10. To Express Permission in Polite Contexts

“Let me…” is often used as a polite way of offering or requesting.

Examples:

• Let me help you with that.
• Let me know if you need anything.
• Let me explain the rules.

11. In Sports (Specialised Use)

In certain sports like tennis or badminton, a “let” refers to a situation where a point does not count, and the serve is replayed.

Examples:

• The umpire called a let because the ball touched the net.
• He served again after a let.

12. Idiomatic Uses

Many idioms in British English contain “let”, each with unique figurative meanings:

• Let sleeping dogs lie – avoid stirring up old problems.
• Let the cat out of the bag – reveal a secret.
• Live and let live – tolerate differences in others.
• Let yourself go – relax or act without restraint.

The word “let” in British English is rich with meanings, ranging from simple permission (let me go) to property rental (the flat is to let), from phrasal verbs (let down, let off) to idiomatic expressions (let the cat out of the bag). Mastering all its uses enables learners to communicate more naturally and understand English in both everyday and formal contexts.

100 Imperative Sentences with “Let” in British English

Conclusion

The verb “let” is an essential part of British English. It is used to mean allow, rent out, and appears in countless idioms and expressions. From everyday speech such as “let’s go” to formal usage like “to let” in property, its versatility makes it a powerful and indispensable word. Understanding its different applications will help learners of English use it naturally and accurately in both spoken and written communication.

By mastering the use of “let”, you not only expand your vocabulary but also improve your ability to communicate effectively in British English.

Go to Home Page

Check out www.techmindspro.com for Technology and Engineering related posts