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Phrasal verbs "let on" vs "let out"

Differences between let on and let out

Let on means to reveal or disclose information, often something that was previously kept secret. Let out means to release or allow something to escape from a confined space.

Meanings and Definitions: let on vs let out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Let on

  • 1Tell a secret.

    I didn't mean to LET ON about the party; I just said it without thinking.

Let out

  • 1Allow to leave or go out.

    The convict was LET OUT of prison after serving five years of an eight - year sentence.

  • 2Make a sound.

    He LET OUT a huge sigh of relief when he heard the results.

  • 3Make clothes bigger.

    I've put on so much weight that I'm going to have to LET my suits OUT.

Usage Examples: let on, let out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

let on

Example

She didn't let on that she knew about the surprise party.

Example

He never lets on when he knows something he shouldn't.

let out

Example

Please let out the dog; he needs to go for a walk.

Example

She lets out the cat every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Let on

spill the beans

To reveal or disclose information that was previously kept secret.

Example

She couldn't help but spill the beans about the surprise party they were planning for their friend's birthday.

give away

To reveal or disclose information unintentionally or without intending to do so.

Example

His nervous laughter gave away the fact that he had forgotten his lines during the play.

blurt out

To say something suddenly and without thinking, often revealing information that was meant to be kept secret.

Example

She accidentally blurted out the news of her sister's engagement before she had a chance to tell anyone else.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Let out

release

To allow something to escape from a confined space or to set something free.

Example

The zookeeper released the animals back into their habitats after a successful check-up.

unleash

To release or set free something powerful or intense, often with great force or impact.

Example

The storm unleashed its fury on the small town, causing widespread damage and flooding.

set loose

To release or allow something to move freely, often with the intention of causing chaos or disruption.

Example

The pranksters set loose a group of chickens in the school hallway, causing a commotion and disrupting classes.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “let”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in let on vs let out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: let on or let out?

In daily conversation, people use let on more often than let out. This is because let on can be used in a variety of contexts, such as gossiping or sharing personal information. Let out is less common and is mainly used when referring to physical objects or spaces.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of let on and let out

Let on and let out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of let on and let out

The tone of let on and let out can differ based on context. Let on often carries a secretive or conspiratorial tone when revealing information, while let out typically has a practical and straightforward tone, especially when referring to releasing objects or animals.

let on & let out: Synonyms and Antonyms

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