let me down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let me down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express disappointment in someone or something for failing to meet your expectations. Example: I was depending on her to help me with the project, but she let me down.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Perry didn't let me down".

The New York Times

He let me down gently.

The Guardian - Sport

And He didn't let me down".

The New York Times - Sports

And it's never let me down".

Independent

But the justice system let me down".

The New York Times

They let me down the most.

The New Yorker

They really let me down".

The New York Times

Never let me down, Ludacris.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

She never lets me down".

The New York Times - Sports

Whether they are letting me down is irrelevant.

BBC

The bag lets me down with the hardware.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "let me down", ensure that the context clearly identifies who or what caused the disappointment. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the message.

Common error

Avoid phrasing like "I was let down", especially when the actor is clear. Instead, use the active voice: "They let me down." This construction is more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let me down" functions as an idiomatic expression used to express disappointment or a failure to meet expectations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and commonly used phrase in English. Many examples showcase its use in various contexts to convey this sentiment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "let me down" is a common and acceptable way to express disappointment, as verified by Ludwig AI. Its usage spans various contexts, primarily in News & Media. To use it effectively, ensure that the context clearly indicates who or what is causing the disappointment. While generally neutral, it’s crucial to avoid passive voice constructions like "I was let down" for a more direct impact. Alternative phrases such as "disappoint me" or "fail to meet my expectations" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. Remember to use "let me down" actively and contextually for clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disappoint me

Directly conveys the feeling of causing disappointment.

not live up to expectations

A common idiom expressing failure to achieve anticipated results.

fail to meet my expectations

More formal and explicitly states the unmet expectations.

fall short of my hopes

Emphasizes the failure to achieve desired outcomes.

prove to be a disappointment

Highlights the feeling of disillusionment.

betray my trust

Highlights the violation of trust and reliance.

leave me wanting

Focuses on the sense of unfulfillment and lack.

dashed my hopes

Implies a more sudden and forceful shattering of expectations.

left me in the lurch

Suggests abandonment or failure to provide support when needed.

renege on your promise

Emphasizes the breaking of a commitment or agreement.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "let me down"?

Saying someone has "let you down" means they have disappointed you by failing to meet your expectations or by not fulfilling a promise.

How can I use "let me down" in a sentence?

You can use "let me down" in a sentence like, "I was really counting on you, and you "let me down"."

What's the difference between "disappoint" and "let me down"?

"Disappoint" is a more general term for causing unhappiness, while "let me down" specifically implies a failure to fulfill an expectation or trust.

What are some alternative ways to say someone "let me down"?

Instead of saying someone "let me down", you could say they "disappointed me", "failed to meet my expectations", or "betrayed my trust", depending on the specific context.