but he let

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but he let" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone allowed or permitted something to happen, often in contrast to an expectation or a previous statement. Example: "I thought he would stop her, but he let her go without any objections."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But he let me through".

The New York Times - Sports

But he let me down.

The Guardian - Sport

But he let the thought pass.

The New York Times

"But he let government property get away.

The New York Times

Rather got the "get," but he let it get away.

The New Yorker

But he let his head nod back and forth slightly.

The New York Times

But he let Bashir do pretty much what he wanted.

The New Yorker

But he let the claim of patient mistreatment go forward.

The New York Times - Health

But he let me in on a secret.

The New York Times - Food

But he let the deadline pass without saying another word.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He wants to take away our guns--but he let patriots bring assault weapons to a meeting where he spoke.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but he let", ensure the contrast is clear. The statement before "but" should create an expectation that is then reversed by the allowance indicated by "he let".

Common error

Avoid using "but he let" when the 'letting' actually implies enablement or active assistance, which would be better conveyed by phrases like "but he helped" or "but he enabled."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but he let" functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas. It indicates that despite an implied or stated expectation, someone permitted something to occur. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but he let" serves as a conjunction expressing contrast and permission. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is commonly found in news and media sources, conveying a neutral tone. When writing, ensure a clear contrast before and after the phrase. More formal alternatives such as "however he permitted" can be used depending on context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however he permitted

Replaces "let" with "permitted", offering a more formal tone and emphasizes authorization.

yet he allowed

Substitutes "but" with "yet" and "let" with "allowed", creating a slightly contrasting but similar expression.

nonetheless he authorized

Emphasizes the granting of official permission using "authorized" instead of "let".

still he enabled

Implies facilitating or making something possible, rather than merely allowing it.

even so he approved

Indicates agreement or endorsement, changing the nuance from simple allowance to active support.

in spite of that he consented

Highlights that despite some obstacle or hesitation, permission was given.

though he suffered

Highlights the act of suffering something while permitting something else, and implies a tolerance of the other action.

contrary to expectations he facilitated

Highlights the contrast with others expectations while permitting something else and makes it possible.

despite that he tolerated

Highlights that despite something the person tolerated and permitted another one.

regardless he endured

Highlights the act of enduring something while permitting something else, and implies a tolerance of the other action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase the expression "but he let"?

You can use alternatives like "however he permitted", "yet he allowed", or "nonetheless he authorized" depending on the context.

Is "but he let" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "but he let" is more suited for neutral or informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using "however he permitted" or "nevertheless he allowed" for a more professional tone.

What does "but he let" imply in a sentence?

The phrase "but he let" typically implies that someone allowed something to happen, often contrary to what might have been expected or desired. It introduces a sense of permission or non-interference.

Can "but he let" be used to describe inaction?

Yes, "but he let" can describe inaction by implying that someone chose not to prevent something from happening, even though they had the opportunity or ability to do so.