The verb "to let" is a highly functional and contextual word in English, primarily carrying three distinct meanings. Its short form belies its versatility across common speech and specialized vocabulary.
1. The Core Meaning: To Allow or Permit
The most frequent meaning of 'let' is to give permission or to allow an action or event to take place by choosing not to stop it. ????
- Crucial Grammar: When used for permission, 'let' is always followed by the object and the bare infinitive (the verb without 'to').
- Example: "The coach let the team celebrate their victory."
- Example: "Don't let the opportunity pass you by."
2. Making a Suggestion: 'Let's'
The contraction "let's" (short for "let us") is used ubiquitously to propose a joint action or suggestion that includes both the speaker and the listeners. It acts as a collective imperative.
- Example: "Let's grab dinner before the show."
- Example: "Let's not jump to conclusions about what happened."
3. The Property Meaning: Available for Rent
In the context of real estate, particularly in the UK and Commonwealth countries, the phrase "To Let" on a sign or listing means a property (house, flat, or room) is available for rent or lease. ????
- Here, 'to let' means the owner is granting occupancy to a tenant in exchange for rent.
- Example: "There's a beautiful flat to let on the top floor."
4. Key Phrasal Verbs
'Let' is the foundation of several essential phrasal verbs that have fixed meanings: