they are let

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are let" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where permission is granted or when referring to something being allowed or permitted. Example: "They are let into the building after showing their identification."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And here they are, let down again".

The Guardian

Eventually, they are let loose, complete with a job and housing.

The Economist

If they are let out, the chances are that some of them will commit serious offences.

The Guardian

So they are let go, with orders to appear at a hearing.

The New York Times

It cannot be right that they are let off millions of pounds of tax owed to the UK government".

The Guardian

David Dahlborn, an accommodation representative said: "It's our job to be there for students when they are let down".

Independent

When they are let out to exercise, they do so alone, watched over by guards in riot gear.

The Economist

Yet they are let down by their hinterlands, which sprawl much more extravagantly than do the outskirts of Los Angeles.

The Economist

Once their names are called, they are let out of their cells to blindfold themselves and form a line.

The Guardian

And if they are, let them say so, rather than trying to hide behind a balanced-budget amendment.

The New Yorker

Thus, when they are let out, any day now, neither will wander off in search of its old home.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are let", ensure the context clearly indicates who "they" refers to, and what they are being allowed to do. This avoids ambiguity and maintains clarity.

Common error

Avoid confusing "let" (to allow) with "left" (past tense of leave or a direction). Using "they are left" suggests abandonment, not permission.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are let" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a group is receiving permission or being allowed to perform an action. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The verb 'let' takes on the role of granting authorization.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

HuffPost

2%

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they are let" is a grammatically sound passive construction used to indicate that a group is being granted permission or allowed to do something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is correct and widespread. Predominantly found in news and media, and science contexts. While maintaining a neutral register, the key to effective use is ensuring clarity in who "they" refers to. Alternatives such as "they are allowed" or "they are permitted" can offer nuanced expressions of the same concept. The phrase's frequency and grammatical correctness solidify its place as a common and acceptable expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are permitted

Replaces "let" with a more formal synonym, emphasizing official authorization.

they are allowed

Substitutes "let" with a more common and easily understood synonym.

they are authorized

Stresses the official nature of the permission granted.

they are released

Focuses on the action of being freed or discharged from a confined space or obligation.

they are discharged

Implies a formal release, often from a duty or responsibility.

they are freed

Emphasizes liberation or release from captivity or restriction.

they gain access

Highlights the attainment of entry or permission to use something.

they are given leave

Indicates that permission or authorization has been granted to them.

they secure passage

Focuses on the act of obtaining permission or means to travel or proceed.

they obtain clearance

Highlights the process of getting official authorization or approval.

FAQs

What does "they are let" mean?

The phrase "they are let" means that a group of people or things are given permission to do something or are allowed to go somewhere. It implies authorization or the removal of a restriction.

What can I say instead of "they are let"?

You can use alternatives like "they are allowed", "they are permitted", or "they are released" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "they are let"?

Yes, "they are let" is grammatically correct. It's a passive construction indicating that someone or something is granting permission or allowing action.

How can I use "they are let" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "After completing the training, "they are let" loose on the internet to improve at an even faster rate." This shows the trainees are now authorized and able to operate freely.