In English, the words “let” and “let’s” play distinct roles in sentence construction and meaning. While they are often related, they serve different grammatical and contextual functions. Understanding their usage can enhance both written and spoken communication.
“Let”
Definition: “Let” is a verb that means to allow or permit. It is used to give permission, make a suggestion, or indicate a possibility.
Usage in Sentences:
Permission:
“My parents let me go to the party.”
“The teacher let the students leave early.”
Suggestion:
“Let him finish his work before we leave.”
“Let her decide what she wants for dinner.”
Possibility:
“If you let go of the rope, you might fall.”
“Don’t let fear control your actions.”
Common Structures:
Let + Object + Base Verb:
“Let her speak.”
“Let them play outside.”
Let + Pronoun + Base Verb:
“Let us help you.”
“Let him know the details.”
Passive Voice with “Let”:
When “let” is used in the passive voice, it often implies being allowed to do something.
“He was let go from his job.”
“The dog was let out of the house.”
“Let’s”
Definition: “Let’s” is a contraction of “let us.” It is used to make suggestions or proposals that include the speaker and the listener(s).
Usage in Sentences:
Suggestion:
“Let’s go for a walk.”
“Let’s try a new restaurant tonight.”
Encouragement:
“Let’s work together to solve this problem.”
“Let’s give it our best shot.”
Common Structures:
Let’s + Base Verb:
“Let’s start the meeting.”
“Let’s invite them over for dinner.”
Let’s + Not + Base Verb (Negative Form):
“Let’s not argue about this.”
“Let’s not be late.”
Difference Between Let & Let’s
Let
Let’s
Definition
To allow or permit
Contraction of “let us,” used to make suggestions or proposals that include the speaker
Usage
Giving permission, making suggestions, indicating possibility
Making suggestions or proposals, including the speaker
Example – Permission
“My parents let me go to the party.”
N/A
Example – Suggestion
“Let him finish his work before we leave.”
“Let’s go for a walk.”
Example – Possibility
“If you let go of the rope, you might fall.”
N/A
Common Structure
Let + Object/Pronoun + Base Verb
Let’s + Base Verb
Example Structure
“Let her speak.”
“Let’s start the meeting.”
Negative Form
N/A
Let’s + Not + Base Verb
Example Negative Form
N/A
“Let’s not argue about this.”
Difference
Used to give permission or make suggestions to others
Includes the speaker in the action
Sentences of “Let” and “Let’s”
Examples with “Let”:
Let him finish his meal.
My parents let me stay out late.
Please let me know if you need anything.
Don’t let the dog out of the house.
The manager let the employees leave early.
Let us have a moment of silence.
She let her children play in the park.
Let them handle the situation.
The teacher let the students use their notes for the test.
Let me help you with those bags.
Don’t let the fire go out.
He won’t let anyone borrow his car.
Let the music play.
The coach let the team practice on the field.
Let’s not let this opportunity slip away.
Let her choose the movie we watch tonight.
Let the sunshine in.
Let the kids have some fun.
Let’s let bygones be bygones.
They let the secret slip during the conversation.
Examples with “Let’s”:
Let’s go to the beach.
Let’s have dinner together tonight.
Let’s start the meeting now.
Let’s take a break.
Let’s play a game.
Let’s try a new restaurant this weekend.
Let’s finish this project by tomorrow.
Let’s watch a movie.
Let’s bake some cookies.
Let’s walk to the park.
Let’s go shopping.
Let’s invite our friends over.
Let’s clean the house.
Let’s paint the living room.
Let’s read a book.
Let’s learn a new language.
Let’s exercise together.
Let’s make a plan for the weekend.
Let’s discuss this later.
Let’s not forget to call Grandma.
The words “let” and “let’s” are essential in English for indicating permission, making suggestions, and encouraging participation. Remembering that “let” often gives permission to others and “let’s” includes the speaker in the action can help in using these terms correctly. Whether you’re writing formally or speaking casually, mastering “let” and “let’s” will enhance your communication skills.
