let sit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let sit" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in cooking or food preparation contexts to indicate that something should be left undisturbed for a period of time to allow flavors to develop or ingredients to settle. Example: "After mixing the ingredients, let sit for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Let sit five minutes.

The New York Times - Health

Let sit 30 minutes.

The New York Times

Let sit until bubbly.

The New York Times - Food

Let sit about 10 minutes.

The New York Times - Food

Let sit a few hours.

The New York Times

Cover and let sit for 1 hour.

The New York Times - Health

Let sit 20 to 30 minutes.

The New York Times

Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.

The New York Times - Health

Let sit undisturbed for 10 minutes.

The New York Times - Health

Let sit for 20 minutes, until pliable.

The New York Times - Health

Let sit for 15 minutes or longer.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "let sit" in recipes, specify the exact time frame for optimal results, such as "let sit for 15 minutes".

Common error

Avoid vague instructions like "let sit for a while". Always provide a specific timeframe to ensure the desired outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let sit" functions as an imperative verb phrase, instructing the reader to allow something to remain undisturbed for a specified period. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in various contexts, primarily in recipes and instructional guides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

52%

News & Media

46%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "let sit" is a common and grammatically correct imperative phrase used to instruct someone to allow something to remain undisturbed for a period of time. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is frequently found in recipes, DIY guides, and general instructions. While its register is generally neutral to informal, it's essential to provide specific timeframes to avoid vagueness. Related phrases include "allow to rest" and "leave undisturbed". Proper use of "let sit" ensures clarity and precision in instructional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow to rest

Emphasizes the act of permitting something to be inactive.

leave undisturbed

Focuses on avoiding any interference during the resting period.

set aside

Highlights the action of placing something separately for a while.

allow to stand

Similar to "allow to rest", but can also imply allowing liquid to settle.

hold back

Suggests restraining something from being used or consumed immediately.

keep in place

Indicates maintaining the current position without changes.

reserve

Implies saving something for later use.

defer action

Refers to postponing any action or intervention.

take a break

To suspend doing something, for rest or recreation.

leave to settle

Similar to "allow to stand", specifically for liquids or mixtures.

FAQs

How do I use "let sit" in a recipe?

In a recipe, use "let sit" to instruct the reader to allow the ingredients or dish to rest undisturbed for a specific amount of time. For example, "After mixing the dough, "let sit" for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to develop".

What's a similar phrase to "let sit"?

Alternatives to "let sit" include "allow to rest", "leave undisturbed", or "allow to stand". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "let sit"?

Yes, "let sit" is grammatically correct. It is commonly used in instructional contexts, particularly in recipes and DIY guides, to indicate a period of inactivity.

What does "let sit overnight" mean?

"Let sit overnight" means to allow something to remain undisturbed for the duration of the night, typically around 8-12 hours. For example, "Cover the mixture and "let sit overnight" in the refrigerator".