Leave it or Let it: Spot the Difference

Leave it or Let it: Spot the Difference

Leave vs. Let: What’s the Difference?

Let’s talk about two common words in English, “leave” and “let”. These words might seem similar, but they have different meanings and uses.

History

The word “leave” comes from Old English, meaning permission or to depart. The word “let” also comes from Old English, meaning to allow.

How to Use Them

1. Leave is used when someone or something is going away or not taking something.
Example: Please leave your shoes at the door.
2. Let is used when allowing someone to do something.
Example: Let me help you with your homework.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember, leave is about departing, and let is about allowing. Leave shows someone going, and let shows someone being allowed.

Examples of Usage:

Examples of using leave:
1. Don’t leave your bag unattended.
2. She decided to leave the party early.
3. The teacher asked the students to leave the classroom quietly.
4. Please leave some food for me.
5. He had to leave his phone at home.

Examples of using let:
1. Can you let the dog out?
2. My mom won’t let me go out tonight.
3. Let’s play a game together.
4. They let us stay at their house.
5. Will you let me know when you’re ready?

Summary

In short, leave is about going away or not taking something while let is about allowing someone to do something. Remembering that can help you use these words correctly in your writing and speaking.