let it sit for a while

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let it sit for a while" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting to allow something to remain in a particular state or condition for a period of time, often to achieve a desired effect. Example: "After mixing the ingredients, let it sit for a while to allow the flavors to meld together."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Remove from the heat, add the parsley, lemon juice, salt and pepper, then let it sit for a while.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We spray a cleaning solution on the tile and let it sit for a while to loosen up the dirt," Mr. Nichols said.

The New York Times

I ordered the Froot Loops that I was never allowed to have as a child and let it sit for a while.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is the sort of dish that is as good cold as warm (I like to let it sit for a while after it's cooked, so you don't eat it piping hot), so leftovers can only be a good thing.

The New York Times

When they started writing the script, the Coens wrote only 40 pages and then let it sit for a while before finishing it.

Wikipedia

Let it sit for a while.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Let it sit for a minute.

WikiHow

Let it sit for a few hours.

WikiHow

Let it sit for about a minute.

WikiHow

Let it sit for about an hour.

WikiHow

Let it sit for 10-15 seconds, and then let go.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "let it sit for a while" in recipes, specify an approximate time frame to guide the reader effectively. For instance, "After adding the spices, let it sit for a while, about 15-20 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld."

Common error

Avoid using "let it sit for a while" without providing sufficient context. Always clarify what 'it' refers to and why allowing it to sit is beneficial. Ambiguity can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let it sit for a while" functions primarily as an imperative, giving a direction or instruction to allow something to remain undisturbed for a period. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts. Examples include recipes, cleaning instructions and even writing processes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "let it sit for a while" is a grammatically correct and frequently used imperative, primarily functioning as an instruction to allow something to rest undisturbed for a certain period. As Ludwig's analysis confirms, it's commonly found in informal contexts like recipes and DIY guides, but less so in formal writing. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what 'it' refers to and an approximate time frame, if possible. Alternatives such as "allow it to rest for a period" or "leave it to stand for some time" can provide a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow some time for it to sit

Inverts the structure slightly, emphasizing the time element.

let it rest undisturbed for a bit

Emphasizes rest and lack of disturbance with 'undisturbed' and replaces 'a while' with the more informal 'a bit'.

allow it to rest for a period

Replaces "sit" with "rest" and "a while" with "a period", emphasizing a longer duration.

allow it time to stand

Focuses on allowing time for something to stand, changing the emphasis slightly.

leave it to stand for some time

Uses "stand" instead of "sit" and "some time" for "a while", implying a more formal tone.

give it a moment to settle

Focuses on the action of settling, suitable when the object needs to stabilize.

leave untouched for a short period

Stresses the importance of not touching something for a defined duration.

permit it to remain undisturbed briefly

Replaces the phrase with more formal and descriptive language, emphasizing lack of interference.

give it a brief pause

Replaces the extended duration with a shorter "brief pause".

allow a temporary delay

Focuses on the aspect of delaying action, using more formal wording.

FAQs

How can I use "let it sit for a while" in a sentence?

You can use "let it sit for a while" to instruct someone to allow something to rest or remain undisturbed for a period. For example, "After applying the cleaning solution, let it sit for a while to loosen the grime."

What's a more formal way to say "let it sit for a while"?

For a more formal tone, you could say "allow it to stand for some time" or "permit it to remain undisturbed briefly". These alternatives offer a similar meaning while elevating the language.

What does "let it sit for a while" mean in cooking?

In a culinary context, "let it sit for a while" generally means to allow food to rest or marinate, enabling flavors to develop or allowing ingredients to meld together. The specific duration can vary widely based on the recipe.

Is it ever incorrect to use "let it sit for a while"?

While grammatically correct, using "let it sit for a while" can be vague if you don't specify what "it" refers to or provide an approximate timeframe. Clear communication is essential for effective instruction.