let it simmer

USAGE SUMMARY

"let it simmer" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to let something cook or brew slowly over low heat, or to allow a situation to develop or progress without interference. Example: "After adding all the ingredients, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes for maximum flavor." (cooking) Example: "I think we should let this argument simmer for a while before trying to resolve it." (allowing a situation to develop).

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cover the saucepan with its lid and let it simmer until the water evaporates.

WikiHow

And let it simmer for a weekend.

The Washington Post

Strain sauce and let it simmer.

The New York Times - Magazine

Let's let it simmer.' He reads people really well.

The Guardian

Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Let's let it simmer.' He reads people really well.

The Guardian

Don't Let It Simmer My co-worker heats her lunch in the microwave in plastic containers.

The New York Times

Bring it back again, and let it simmer for three-quarters of an hour.

The New York Times

She added that she thought her friend needed to "let it simmer, like his green chili".

The New York Times

Let it simmer quietly; this is a five-to-six-hour undertaking.

The New Yorker

Let it simmer a bit.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "let it simmer" in a cooking context, specify the duration for clarity. For example, "Let it simmer for 20 minutes."

Common error

Avoid using "let it simmer" excessively in non-cooking contexts, as it can sound cliché. Opt for more precise language to describe development or resolution processes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let it simmer" primarily functions as an imperative, giving a command or instruction. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English. It suggests a process of slow cooking or gradual development.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "let it simmer" is a versatile imperative used to advise allowing a process to unfold gradually, whether in cooking or in handling delicate situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While generally neutral in register, it's more frequent in informal and instructional contexts, particularly in WikiHow and News & Media articles. When writing, be mindful of overusing it figuratively and opt for more precise language in formal settings. Consider related phrases like ""allow it to develop"" or "give it time" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow it to develop

Focuses on allowing a situation to unfold naturally, rather than a cooking process.

leave it to stew

Emphasizes a longer, more involved process of development or cooking.

let it brew

Implies a gradual development, often in the context of ideas or plans.

allow it to steep

Suggests a process of infusing flavor or ideas over time.

keep it on low heat

Directly relates to the cooking context, emphasizing low and slow heating.

allow it to mature

Implies a process of growth and improvement over time.

let it rest

Suggests a period of inactivity to allow for further development or settling.

give it time

A more general expression indicating that patience is needed for a desired outcome.

hold off on it

Indicates delaying action to allow for more consideration or development.

let it sit

Similar to letting something rest, implying a temporary pause for development.

FAQs

How do I use "let it simmer" in a recipe?

In cooking, "let it simmer" means to cook something gently in liquid over low heat. For instance, "After adding the tomatoes, let the sauce simmer for an hour."

What does it mean to "let it simmer" in a non-cooking context?

Figuratively, "let it simmer" means to allow a situation or idea to develop slowly without interference. For example, "I'm not going to push the issue; I'll "allow it to develop" naturally."

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "let it simmer"?

While grammatically correct, overusing "let it simmer" in formal writing can sound informal. Consider more precise language like "allow time for development" in academic or business contexts.

What are some alternatives to saying "let it simmer" when referring to a disagreement?

Instead of "let it simmer", you could say "give it time", "allow it to rest", or "hold off on it" to indicate allowing the situation to cool down before addressing it.