let them do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let them do" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express permission or allowance for others to take action or make decisions. Example: "If they believe they can handle the situation, then let them do what they think is best."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Let them do it".

The New York Times - Arts

Don't let them do this".

Independent

Fine — let them do this.

The Washington Post

So let them do that.

The New York Times

"We let them do that".

The New York Times

Let them do their job.

The Guardian

I let them do it," he said.

The New York Times

"We just let them do their job.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Let them do it in private".

The New York Times

Just let them do their thing.

Forbes

Let them do it for you".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "let them do" when you want to express permission or a lack of interference, indicating that you trust or accept the actions of others. It's suitable when you want to convey a sense of delegation or acceptance of another's choices.

Common error

Avoid using "let them do" if you're unsure about the consequences of their actions or if their actions could have negative repercussions for you or others. In such cases, it's crucial to exercise caution and perhaps offer guidance or impose limits.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let them do" functions as an imperative, typically used to grant permission, express acceptance, or indicate a hands-off approach. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "let them do" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to convey permission or acceptance of someone else's actions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it functions primarily as an imperative. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register making it suitable for various situations. While alternatives like "allow them to proceed" or "permit them to act" exist for more formal settings, "let them do" remains a versatile and widely understood phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow them to proceed

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes permission.

permit them to act

This alternative is similar to 'allow' but may imply official authorization.

give them leeway

This suggests granting freedom within certain limits.

empower them to act

This alternative emphasizes giving them power and responsibility.

authorize their actions

This alternative implies a formal approval of their actions.

enable them to perform

This suggests providing the means or opportunity to do something.

leave it up to them

This shifts the responsibility and decision-making to the other party.

trust them to handle it

This alternative focuses on confidence in their ability.

cede control to them

This implies relinquishing control or authority.

give them free rein

This suggests allowing them complete freedom of action.

FAQs

How can I use "let them do" in a sentence?

Use "let them do" when you want to express permission or acceptance of someone else's actions. For example, "If they think they can manage it, "let them do" it their way."

What phrases are similar to "let them do"?

Alternatives include "allow them to proceed", "permit them to act", or "give them leeway", each with slightly different connotations of permission and control.

Is "let them do" suitable for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "let them do" can sometimes be considered informal. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "authorize their actions" or "enable them to perform".

When should I avoid using "let them do"?

Avoid using "let them do" if you have serious concerns about the potential consequences of their actions or if you need to maintain tight control over the situation. In such scenarios, provide guidance or set boundaries instead.