they were let

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were let" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where permission or allowance is being discussed, typically followed by an action or situation. Example: "After much deliberation, they were let into the exclusive event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Eventually they were let go.

The Economist

They were let go after repeated strikes.

The New York Times

They were let into the house in small groups.

The New York Times

With recruits ideologically primed, they were let loose.

The Guardian

With no evidence of contraband, they were let go.

The New York Times

"At the Vanity Fair party, they were let in the back door.

The New Yorker

They were let down quickly, when a par putt lipped out on the opening hole.

The New York Times

They were let out for five minutes, watched, and lured back in with cooked shrimp.

The New Yorker

They were let down by the over-paid executives who created the mess.

Independent

When they told the commander of the launch that they were newspapermen they were let go.

The New Yorker

Webb wrote: "Some of those on the losing side think they were let down.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider if a more specific verb like "released", "permitted", or "authorized" would provide a more precise meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "they were let" when an active voice construction would be more direct and impactful. For instance, instead of "they were let go by the company", consider "the company fired them".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were let" functions as a passive voice construction. It indicates that a group of individuals received permission or were allowed to do something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its usage in various contexts, primarily involving granting access or release.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they were let" is a common and grammatically correct passive voice construction that signifies permission or release. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is predominantly used in news and media contexts, and to a lesser extent in wikis and business communications. While versatile, writers should ensure clarity by specifying who granted the permission. Alternatives such as "they were allowed" or "they were released" can sometimes provide more precision. The phrase's widespread usage across authoritative sources confirms its acceptability in formal and informal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were permitted

This alternative emphasizes formal authorization or consent.

they were allowed

This option suggests a general allowance or lack of prohibition.

they were authorized

This indicates that official approval was granted.

they were released

This implies a freeing from confinement or obligation.

they were discharged

Similar to released, but often used in a more formal context like from a hospital or service.

they gained entry

Focuses on the act of entering, suggesting permission to enter a place.

they were given leave

Implies formal permission to depart or take time off.

they were granted access

Highlights the permission to access something, be it physical or digital.

they obtained clearance

Emphasizes the act of receiving necessary approval to proceed.

they were excused

Suggests a release from a duty or obligation.

FAQs

What does "they were let" mean?

The phrase "they were let" typically means that a group of people were permitted, allowed, or released to do something or go somewhere. It implies that someone in authority granted them this permission.

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

You can use alternatives like "they were allowed", "they were permitted", or "they were released" depending on the context.

Is "they were let in" grammatically correct?

Yes, "they were let in" is grammatically correct. It's a passive construction indicating that someone allowed them to enter a place. For example, "When they got to the house, they were let in by two of her flatmates".

What's the difference between "they were let go" and "they were fired"?

"They were let go" is often a euphemism for "they were fired", implying that their employment was terminated, often due to layoffs or restructuring. "They were fired" is more direct and usually indicates termination due to performance or misconduct.