I let them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I let them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing that you allowed a group of people to do something or to have permission for an action. Example: "I let them decide the location for our next meeting since they know the area better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I let them try".

The New York Times

I let them play".

The New York Times

Should I let them?

The New York Times

I let them write it.

The New Yorker

I let them all down".

The New York Times

I let them down again".

The New York Times - Sports

I let them in.

The New Yorker

"I let them out.

The New York Times

I let them cheat.

The Guardian - Books

So I let them know.

The Guardian - Sport

"Can I let them down?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing formal scenarios, consider using synonyms like "I permitted them" or "I authorized them" to enhance the formality of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "I let them" when the action had negative consequences and you were responsible. Use "I allowed them" if the negative consequences could not be anticipated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I let them" functions as a clause that indicates permission or allowance. Ludwig examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, showing that someone authorized or permitted others to perform an action. The Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I let them" is a grammatically correct and very common way to express that permission was granted or an action was allowed. As highlighted by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news and media sources and has a neutral register. While simple and direct, be mindful of using more formal alternatives like "I permitted them" when appropriate. When the action had negative consequences, avoid this phrase. The frequent examples in Ludwig confirm its widespread usage and versatility in conveying allowance or permission in various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I permitted them

Replaces "let" with a more formal synonym, "permitted".

I allowed them

Uses "allowed" instead of "let", indicating a similar level of authorization.

I gave them permission

Emphasizes the act of granting permission explicitly.

I authorized them

Suggests a formal endorsement or approval.

I enabled them

Implies providing the means or opportunity to do something.

I empowered them

Suggests giving them power or authority.

I approved their request

Specifically refers to granting a request.

I consented to their actions

Indicates agreement or willingness regarding their actions.

I greenlit their proposal

Suggests formal approval or a go-ahead for a project.

I signed off on their decision

Indicates formal agreement and responsibility for a decision.

FAQs

How can I use "I let them" in a sentence?

Use "I let them" to indicate that you permitted or allowed someone to do something. For example, "I let them use my car for the weekend" or "I let them decide the best course of action".

What can I say instead of "I let them"?

You can use alternatives like "I permitted them", "I allowed them", or "I gave them permission" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "I let them"?

"I let them" is appropriate in both informal and formal contexts when you want to express that you gave someone permission or allowed them to do something. However, in more formal writing, consider using synonyms such as "permitted" or "authorized".

What's the difference between "I let them" and "I made them"?

"I let them" implies giving permission or allowing someone to do something voluntarily. In contrast, "I made them" suggests forcing or compelling someone to do something against their will. They have opposite implications.