What are the definitions of “let on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Tell a secret.
I didn't mean to LET ON about the party; I just said it without thinking.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “let on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb let on is to reveal a secret or share information that was supposed to be kept private. It often implies that the information was accidentally or unintentionally disclosed.
What are the different verb forms of “let on”?
| Root Verb | let on |
| Third Person Singular Present | lets on |
| Present Participle | letting on |
| Simple Past | let on |
| Past Participle | 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.
Example
She is letting on too much about the secret plan.
Example
Yesterday, he accidentally let on about the surprise gift.
Example
She had let on about the secret meeting to her friend.
What kind of phrasal verb is “let on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“let on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She didn't let on that she knew about the surprise party.
Example
He accidentally let on about the secret plan.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“let on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She didn't let on that she knew about the surprise party.
Example
He accidentally let on about the secret plan.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “let on”?
Good things to know
Does “let on” have an informal or formal tone?
Let on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'reveal' or 'disclose' may be more appropriate.
