let him answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let him answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to give someone the opportunity to respond or provide their input in a discussion or conversation. Example: "Before we move on, let's pause for a moment and let him answer the question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

But why not let him answer his own question?

The New York Times

I wouldn't let him answer everybody's question for them.

The New Yorker

And that's -- and that -- MR. LEHRER: Let's let him answer the taxes thing for a moment, OK? MR. ROMNEY: OK.

The New York Times

If the VoxSon is feeling punchy, we let him answer the phone and have a little fun.

The Economist

MR. CORZINE: Well, I haven't heard Congressman Franks speak explicitly about race relations, so I'll let him answer that question.

The New York Times

Many deals in racing are completed around the holidays, and Sage's teachers at Nazareth have let him answer his cellphone in class.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

They often finish each other's sentences, though this time she lets him answer fully.

The New York Times

First, Pincus received a waiver from his source to talk to Fitzgerald, but only for the purpose of letting him answer Fitzgerald's questions.

The New Yorker

After asking him the question, let him completely answer it; don't cut him off or throw in another question.

WikiHow

He had a mind that let him see answers – musically, spiritually, even politically.

The Guardian

When his opponent, Mike Pence, mentioned the "aggression of Russia," Kaine failed to let him unspool an answer that would have contradicted Trump's praise of Vladimir Putin.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "let him answer" make sure that you are able to yield control, do not ask a question and then interrupt the answer.

Common error

Avoid interrupting the individual after prompting with "let him answer". Allow them adequate time to fully express their thoughts without abrupt interjections, which can undermine the purpose of seeking their perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let him answer" functions as an imperative, specifically a directive or instruction. It prompts or allows a designated individual to provide a response. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "let him answer" functions as an imperative, providing an opportunity for someone to respond. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It is generally neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Remember to use this phrase to yield control of the conversation gracefully and avoid interrupting the speaker after prompting them. This demonstrates respect for diverse perspectives and promotes constructive dialogue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow him to reply

Replaces "let" with "allow", emphasizing formal permission.

give him a chance to respond

Focuses on providing an opportunity to answer.

permit him to speak

Uses "permit" for a more formal tone of authorization.

enable him to answer

Highlights the action of making it possible for him to answer.

authorize him to respond

Implies a formal or official endorsement to answer.

let him speak for himself

Emphasizes the individual's right to express their own views.

allow him to elaborate

Suggests giving space for a more detailed answer.

hear his response

Shifts focus to listening to the answer.

give him the floor

Idiomatic expression granting someone the right to speak.

let's hear what he has to say

Invites others to listen to the person's answer.

FAQs

How can I use "let him answer" in a sentence?

You can use "let him answer" when you want to give someone the opportunity to respond to a question or situation. For example: "Before we move on, "let him answer" the accusations."

What phrases are similar to "let him answer"?

Similar phrases include "allow him to reply", "give him a chance to respond", or "permit him to speak", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "let he answer" instead of "let him answer"?

No, "let he answer" is grammatically incorrect. The objective pronoun "him" is required after the verb "let". The correct phrase is "let him answer".

When is it appropriate to use "let him answer"?

It's appropriate to use "let him answer" when you want to yield the floor to someone, especially after a question has been posed or a point has been raised that requires their direct input.