TO LET IRREGULAR VERB – FORMS, USAGE, AND EXAMPLES OF THE VERB 'LET'

To Let Irregular Verb – Forms, Usage, and Examples of the Verb 'Let'

To Let Irregular Verb – Forms, Usage, and Examples of the Verb 'Let'

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Understanding how irregular verbs work in English is essential for learners and fluent speakers alike. Among these, the verb “let” is a commonly used irregular verb that plays a significant role in everyday communication. If you're wondering about the “to let” irregular verb—its forms, usage, meanings, and examples—you've come to the right place.

In this guide, we'll explore everything about the verb “let”, including its present, past, and past participle forms, its role as an irregular verb, and how it is used in both written and spoken English. Whether you're a student, a teacher, or someone looking to improve your grammar, this explanation will help you use the to let irregular verb more accurately and confidently.

What Is an Irregular Verb?

Irregular verbs are verbs that do not follow the typical “-ed” ending rule when changing from present to past or past participle. Instead, they have unique forms that must be memorized. The verb “let” falls into this category, as its form remains the same in all three tenses, which makes it irregular but easy to remember.

Forms of the Verb “Let”

Let’s break down the three main forms of the to let irregular verb:

  • Base Form (V1): let

  • Past Simple (V2): let

  • Past Participle (V3): let

Unlike many other irregular verbs, “let” remains unchanged in all its forms. This makes it simple in terms of spelling but versatile in usage. Here's a quick overview:

Tense Verb Form Example
Present (V1) let I let him borrow my pen.
Past (V2) let She let her children play outside.
Past Participle (V3) let They have let the opportunity pass.

Meaning and Usage of the Verb “Let”

The verb “let” means to allow, to permit, or to lease/rent (especially in British English). It is commonly used in various grammatical structures and expressions.

1. To Allow or Permit:

This is the most common use of the verb let.

  • Examples:

    • Let me help you.

    • My parents let me go out late.

    • Don’t let fear stop you from trying.

Grammar Tip: When “let” is used to allow someone to do something, it’s followed by an object + base verb.

Structure:
Subject + let + object + base verb

Example: She let her dog run free in the park.

2. To Lease or Rent (Common in British English):

In real estate, “let” is used when a property is rented out.

  • Examples:

    • The landlord let the apartment to a young couple.

    • The house was let for £1,000 a month.

    • To let signs were displayed in the window.

Common Expressions with “Let”

The to let irregular verb is also part of many idiomatic expressions and phrasal uses:

  • Let it go: To stop worrying about something.

  • Let someone down: To disappoint someone.

  • Let someone in: To allow someone to enter.

  • Let out a sigh: To exhale audibly.

  • Let the cat out of the bag: To reveal a secret unintentionally.

Passive Voice with “Let”

Unlike many other verbs, “let” is rarely used in passive voice when it means to allow or permit. Instead, alternatives like “allowed to” are used.

  • Incorrect: He was let go to the park.

  • Correct: He was allowed to go to the park.

However, in property context, “let” can be used in the passive form:

  • The flat was let quickly last week.

Differences Between “Let” and “Allow”

While both verbs mean to permit, “let” is more casual and direct, often used in informal or spoken English.

  • Let: I let him borrow my car. (informal, natural)

  • Allow: I allowed him to borrow my car. (formal, often written)

Summary of the Verb “Let”

  • Type: Irregular verb

  • Forms: Let – Let – Let

  • Main meanings: To permit, to lease

  • Use in sentences: Often used with an object + base verb

  • Examples: Let me explain. They let their house last summer.

Final Thoughts

The to let irregular verb is an essential and versatile word in English grammar. Its simplicity in form—let, let, let—makes it easy to remember, while its varied uses add depth and flexibility to your writing and speaking. Whether you're using it to permit someone to do something or talking about letting a house or flat, the verb “let” is rich with meaning and functionality.

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