To Let Up – Idiom Meaning and Usage Explained
To Let Up – Idiom Meaning and Usage Explained
Blog Article
To Let Up – Idiom Meaning and Usage Explained
Introduction
The phrase “to let up” is a versatile idiom in English that means to ease, reduce, or become less intense. It’s often used when referring to weather, pressure, or any challenging situation that temporarily relaxes or lightens.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning, examples, and practical uses of “let up” in different contexts.
Meaning of “To Let Up”
| Usage Context | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Weather | When rain or storm becomes lighter or stops |
| Workload | When pressure or stress reduces |
| Behavior | When someone becomes less harsh or aggressive |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “The rain finally let up after three hours.” | The rain stopped or slowed down. |
| “He won’t let up until the project is perfect.” | He continues working hard without relaxing. |
| “They didn’t let up on the questioning.” | They kept pressuring with no break. |
Synonyms and Related Expressions
| Expression | Similar Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ease off | Reduce intensity or force |
| Lighten up | Become less serious or intense |
| Back off | Reduce pressure or effort |
| Calm down | Return to a normal or relaxed state |
Usage in Different Situations
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Weather Reporting:
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“It doesn’t look like the storm will let up anytime soon.”
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Work or Deadlines:
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“We can’t let up on productivity this quarter.”
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Discipline or Aggression:
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“The coach refused to let up on the players.”
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How to Use in Conversation
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“We’ll leave once the rain lets up.”
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“She’s been working nonstop—she won’t let up!”
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“The pain didn’t let up until I took medicine.”
Grammar Tip
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"Let up" is a phrasal verb
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It can be used intransitively (no object needed):
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Correct: “The snow let up.”
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Incorrect: “She let up the snow.”
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Conclusion
“To let up” is a useful idiom for describing a decrease in intensity, whether it's weather, effort, or stress. It adds nuance and clarity to both spoken and written English. By understanding how and when to use this phrase, you’ll sound more natural and expressive in daily communication.
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